On March 3, the world lost a great literary figure - Kenzaburo Oe, the renowned Japanese writer and Nobel Prize laureate, who passed away at the age of 88. The Chinese Writers Association has sent a message of condolence to the Japan-China Cultural Exchange Association on March 17, expressing deep grief over Mr. Oe's death.

The full text of the message is as follows: 

We are deeply saddened by the loss of the renowned writer, Kenzaburo Oe, who passed away on March 3, 2023. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mr. Oe's family through your association and express our sympathy to you as well.

Mr. Oe was a globally acclaimed Japanese writer who held great admiration and respect for the Chinese writer, Lu Xun. He was highly interested in the development of contemporary Chinese literature and was passionate about fostering literary exchange between China and Japan. Following his first visit to China in 1960, at the invitation of the Chinese Writers Association, he established extensive and intimate connections with the Chinese literary community, forging strong bonds with many Chinese writers. Mr. Oe played an instrumental role in introducing contemporary Chinese literature and outstanding Chinese writers to the world, and in enhancing the global influence of Chinese literature.

Mr. Oe made positive contributions towards fostering mutual understanding and friendship between the people and writers of China and Japan, and was highly regarded by Chinese writers. His passing is an immense loss to the literary world, and Chinese writers have lost a dear and cherished friend. His exceptional achievements and invaluable contributions to the literary sphere will be forever cherished and remembered in our hearts.

May Mr. Oe rest in eternal peace!

China Writers Association

March 17, 2023

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