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Kaieda had a meeting with Wang Jiarui, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee on July 16, after meeting with Liu Yunshan.
Minister Wang welcomed the DPJ delegation, stating “Though it is true that China and Japan have different points of view on some issues, both sides need to cooperate in order to overcome our differences. To achieve this, we should open up our minds and engage in frank discussions.” Kaieda expressed his appreciation to Minister Wang for the long-last relationship between the both Parties, saying “When I was appointed President of the DPJ, the very first letter I received from overseas was from Minister Wang.” He went on: “To overcome the current crisis, it is quite important that politicians on both sides communicate,” expressing his hope that a summit meeting between the leaders of both nations would be realized at the APEC meeting scheduled to take place in China this fall.
Minister Wang, looking back on the exchanges between the two Parties, stated “there’s no change in our stance, but on the Japanese side differences of opinion have emerged”, and he explained China’s stance on the current situation. He also stated, “In times like this, we have to put our heads together to promote confidence-building measures.” Kaieda, explaining how the Sensakus were acquired by the Japanese government when the DPJ was in power, stated, “Though we cannot agree with the Chinese claim, to avoid the risk of a clash it is necessary to create a mechanism for maritime crisis management at an early date and start it functioning.” Regarding other issues, Kaieda emphasized the importance of diplomatic efforts to avoid the creation of misunderstandings with neighbouring countries, stating “It is essential that politicians visit each other and exchange views directly.”
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