Japanese PM ends "spring herald" China tour

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Source: CCTV.com | 12-31-2007 18:11

Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda has wrapped up his four-day tour of China. His visit was seen as a "herald of spring" for China-Japan ties.

Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda (C, front) displays his inscription during his visit to the Temple of Confucius, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Qufu, east China''s Shandong Province, on Dec. 30, 2007. (Xinhua Photo)

Before leaving, Fukuda paid his respects to Confucius in the ancient philosopher's hometown of Qufu, in east China's Shandong Province.

During their one-hour stay, Fukuda and his wife Kiyoko visited the places where Confucius taught 2,500 years ago. They also watched a traditional ceremony commemorating the ancient philosopher.

Fukuda and his wife Kiyoko bowed in front of a statue of the great sage upon arriving at the Temple of Confucius.

Before leaving, Fukuda signed four Chinese characters, "wen gu chuang xin," on a visitors' book.

Fukuda said, "Today is good. wen gu er zhi xin. People need to gain new insights through reviewing old things."

Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda (C) pays a visit to the Temple of Confucius, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Qufu, east China''s Shandong Province, on Dec. 30, 2007. (Xinhua Photo)

China's top leaders met Fukuda during his stay. Both sides pledged to further enhance mutual understanding and cooperation. Deputy Foreign Minister Wang Yi values Fukuda's visit.

Wang Yi said, "At first, on the issue of history, Fukuda expresses that Japan should face up to it to avoid repeating previous mistake. While on the Taiwan issue, the Japanese side reaffirms it will not support Taiwan Independence."

Fukuda's trip, coming three months after he took office, is another important step in boosting bilateral ties. It follows the visit by former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in October of last year and Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao's trip to Japan in April.

Editor:Du Xiaodan