Japan's recognition of history must for peaceful China-Japan ties

In addition, the United States' withdrawal from the third round of quantitative easing and poor exports to emerging markets, especially to Russia due to sanctions, paint a gloomy economic picture for Japan. Taking all these factors into account, the Chinese market seems increasingly important.

Abe's globe-trotting diplomacy has done little to improve relations with his neighbors of China, South Korea and Russia. Will the difficulties of Abe's cabinet generate a policy shift toward China?

Informal contact was made between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida on Saturday. To China, Abe's view of history and provocation on the Diaoyu Islands are insurmountable obstacles, so the significance of the ministers' meeting should not be overestimated. It creates a mere possibility, not a certainty, of normal relations.

First, Japan must refrain from revising history. On the issue of confrontation, both China and Japan should be honest and resort to peaceful diplomatic means.

Although Abe and his ministers have made a gesture toward easing tension, the stance of Abe and Japan's political right-wing remain unchanged. Abe's nationalism and pressure from extremists will always add uncertainty to Sino-Japan relations.

To bring bilateral relations back onto a normal track, Japan's leaders should show their sincerity by correcting their erroneous view of history. Aug. 15, the 69th anniversary of Japan's unconditional surrender to the allies at the end of WWII, provides a good opportunity.