Public anticipates Abe´s China visit

Source: CCTV.com

10-08-2006 08:38

Chinese and Japanese on campuses and on the street speak about their expectations for the landmark tour by Japan's new Prime Minister.

On Sunday, Shinzo Abe will be Japan's first prime minister to visit Beijing in five years.

Already, observers are keeping their gaze on this ice-breaking tour. Whether Abe can thaw chilled relations is anybody's guess.

Japanese Student

"Chinese-Japanese ties may improve more under Abe than under Koizumi. "

Japanese Student

"As a student in China, I'm happy he chose Beijing as the first stop. "

So far Abe has repeatedly stated his intention of building closer ties with Japan's neighbors.

The Chinese interviewed gave cautious optimism, in the hope of increased grass roots exchanges.

Beijing Resident

"For politicians, they should promote open and sincere communications between the people. People-to-people exchanges are very important for the two countries' relations."

Some also say a single visit may not bring obvious results, but as long as the leaders consider actions beneficial to friendship, improvements can be expected in the long run.

Editor:Sun Luying