Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's planned statement on the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II is expected to improve relations with China, according to a ruling party official known for his efforts to revive Asian ties.
"We have been building something and no one expects a statement that will destroy it," Toshihiro Nikai, chairman of the Liberal Democratic Party's general council, said in an interview in Tokyo. "If you think of Japan's position in international society, Prime Minister Abe bears great responsibility. We think he will release an admirable statement."
Nikai, 76, led a 3,000-strong delegation of lawmakers, officials and representatives of the tourism industry to China last month, the latest sign of improving relations between Asia's two largest economies. During the visit he met with President Xi Jinping and delivered a personal missive from Abe to the Chinese leader.