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2009/02/23
DPJ President Ozawa Meets with CPC Central Committee's International Department Minister Wang Jiarui, Agrees to Further Develop Friendly Ties between Japan and China
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On the afternoon of February 23, DPJ President Ozawa received a courtesy visit at party headquarters from Dr. Wang Jiarui, Minister of the International Department, Central Committee of the Communist Party of China. Both men shook hands warmly. As friends, they engaged in an in-depth exchange of opinions and also agreed to further strengthen and develop the Japan-China (DPJ,CPC)Exchange and Discussion Mechanism, which is at the core of the friendly relationships between the two political parties.
After clarifying that the DPJ considers both China and the US to be important nations, Ozawa noted the long history of friendship between the neighboring countries of Japan and China as well as the depth of cultural exchange. On a more personal level, they discussed the DPJ's promotion of friendly ties through the Great Wall of China Delegation and programs such as the invitations to visit Japan extended to Chinese students.
Dr. Wang praised Ozawa's contribution to Japan-China relations through these efforts and said that he recognized him as an old friend of China. Wang proposed that alongside exchanges between both parties, exchanges between local authorities and youth groups should also be strengthened. He also pointed out that Japan is now China's largest trading partner and that both countries should use their mutually beneficial relationship to further strengthen economic ties. Wang also stressed the need for both nations to co-operate in order to overcome the current worldwide financial and economic crisis.
The Minister also mentioned that he had heard from various sources that the DPJ is thought likely to win Japan's next general election. He commented, "Once your party takes office, I hope that you will work to rejuvenate the Japanese economy and further develop Japan-China relations".
After explaining the current electoral climate in Japan, Ozawa said, "If we can achieve a good result (in the election), we will work even harder to rebuild the Japanese economy and improve the friendly ties between Japan and China. I believe we will be successful".
Wang once again noted the high hopes he has for the DPJ, and the meeting, which lasted over one hour, drew to a close.
The meeting was also attended by DPJ Diet Affairs Committee Chair Kenji Yamaoka (Secretary General of the Exchange and Discussion Mechanism).
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