Chinese, Japanese academics meeting held in Beijing

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Source: CCTV.com | 12-26-2006 13:45

Chinese and Japanese academics begin their first joint studies program on Tuesday.

This, in an effort to improve ties between the two countries. The focus is on the war-torn history between the two neighbors. Sino-Japanese relations have been frosty for much of the past half-decade, largely because of the former Japanese Prime Minister's annual visits to Tokyo's Yasukuni Shrine. The Shrine is seen by China as a symbol of militarism.

Twenty academics, 10 from each side, will meet for two days in Beijing beginning on Tuesday.

In addition to ancient and medieval history, the scholars will examine the contentious area of modern history, when Japan invaded and occupied parts of China from 1931 to 1945.

The head of the Chinese delegation, Bu Ping, said no specifics would be discussed at the first meeting. This will be devoted to the working process, principles, and purposes of the joint venture.

The leader of the Japanese side, Shinichi Kitaoka, said gaps between the two Asian neighbors' perceptions of history have been preventing politicians from tackling present and future issues.

Japan's new Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has tried hard to mend fences. He visited China in October, just weeks after he took office. At a meeting with Chinese President Hu Jintao, the two leaders agreed on the need for joint historical studies.

The first round of the studies will conclude with a report in 2008. The program is expected to be held twice a year.

Editor:Du Xiaodan