China Hits Out at Japan's War Remembrance, Offers Indonesia Quake Aid

Beijing has issued a sharp rebuke to Japan's leadership over its handling of wartime history, while simultaneously offering assistance to Indonesia following a devastating earthquake and commenting on the potential for renewed US-North Korea dialogue.

During a regular press briefing on Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian addressed a range of international issues, beginning with remarks on Japan's recent National Memorial Service for the War Dead. Lin Jian accused Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi of avoiding terms like "reflection" and "lessons" in her speech, which he said obscured Japan's responsibility for its past aggression. He described the address as "another major step backward in history," exposing what he called the administration's intention to "cover up, distort, and rewrite" the history of Japan's wartime actions.

The spokesperson also noted that on the day marking Japan's defeat, Prime Minister Takaichi made an offering to a shrine that honours convicted war criminals, while other senior officials, including Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, visited the site. Lin Jian stated that these actions have heightened vigilance among Japan's Asian neighbours and the wider international community. He added that people of insight within Japan have pointed out that a country refusing to reflect on its history cannot earn trust.

Lin Jian noted that this year marks the 81st anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, as well as the 80th anniversary of the opening of the Tokyo Trials. He urged Japanese leaders to heed the voices of justice, reflect on their responsibility for past crimes, and make a clean break with militarism.

Turning to the earthquake that struck Indonesia's Flores Island, Lin Jian expressed China's deep condolences to the victims and sincere sympathies to their families and the injured. He confirmed that China is closely following the situation and is ready to provide active assistance based on Indonesia's needs.

Regarding the safety of Chinese citizens, the spokesperson said a small number were injured in the quake. He confirmed that the Chinese Consulate General in Denpasar has activated its emergency consular protection mechanism and is providing assistance to those affected.

On the Korean Peninsula, Lin Jian responded to reports that US President Donald Trump had ordered the Pentagon to significantly reduce joint military drills with South Korea, citing costs and his relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The spokesperson said China has noted the reports and reiterated that maintaining peace and stability on the peninsula and promoting a political settlement of the issue serve the common interests of all parties.