As Japan's relations with China and South Korea fester over historical and territorial disputes, former Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda on Friday urged leaders in all three countries not to "agitate" public opinion.
"The leader of a state must not be agitated by public opinion. At the same time, the leader must not agitate public opinion," Fukuda said at a forum, citing a proverb in diplomacy.
Fukuda said political and diplomatic issues have thrown "cold blankets" on efforts to promote exchanges of people and businesses, and added that the "uncomfortable atmosphere" is undermining public sentiment.