China expresses deep condolences and grief over former Japanese PM Yasuo Fukuda's passing: FM

(ECNS) -- China expresses deep condolences and grief over former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda's passing and heartfelt sympathies to his family, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Monday.

Guo said that Fukuda is an old friend of the Chinese people, who actively contributed to the improvement and development of China-Japan relations. He has long been committed to the friendship between our two countries, and held a correct view of history.

According to the spokesperson, during his tenure as prime minister, China and Japan signed the fourth political document. After leaving office, he visited the Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre. What's more, he served for many years as Chairman of the Boao Forum for Asia, playing an important role in facilitating exchanges and cooperation in Asia.

Fukuda once noted that the four political documents between China and Japan stipulated the principles governing bilateral relations, which we must bear in mind and never deviate from, the spokesperson said.

Guo said that "those firm and important remarks reflected the honor and responsibility of Japan's statesman of the older generation and should evoke self-reflection and soul-searching among those currently running the Japanese government."