Chinese, Japanese students mark 40 years of peace

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02:11

It's been 40 years since China and Japan signed their Treaty of Peace and Friendship, a pact that has remained strong for years. Many cultural events are being staged in both countries to mark this milestone, including a rather special one on Wednesday at Peking University, a major research institute in China's capital.

A Chinese Kunqu Opera and Japanese boxing were staged in one of the university's halls, a scene which would be hard to imagine 40 years ago. But today, hundreds of students from both countries gathered under the same roof to show that how close the countries have become in such a short period of time.

Kotaromiwa, a student at Waseda University, was excited to visit China.

“This kind of chance is very helpful. I'm really glad to be here and communicate with Chinese students. They are so nice and kind to me. I'd like to do the same thing [for Chinese students] in Japan, " says Kotaromiwa.

Xie Shuming, a sophomore at Peking University, expressed her delight after she talked with Japanese students.

"I could see the differences and comparisons between our two countries. We understand each other. And we promote each other’s cultures."

Two students perform Japanese boxing at a hall of Peking University in Beijing on August 30, 2018. /CGTN Photo

Chinese Premiere Li Keqiang sent a congratulatory message to the organizers. He said such occasions gave great hope for the years ahead.

China's vice foreign minister, Kong Xuanyou was on hand to pass on his words of encouragement.

"Youngsters represent the future. How the young people of China and Japan perceive each other affects the future direction and development of the two countries. The Chinese government will continue to support exchanges between the young people from the two countries," wrote Li Keqiang in his letter.

Meanwhile, Japan's ambassador to China was also present to deliver a message from Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

"The future of Japan and China belongs to the youngsters like you, the ones sitting over here. I'm looking forward to your future endeavors in your respective fields. [Building] the future‘s’ bridge of friendship between the two countries is counting on you," wrote Shinzo Abe in his letter.

Many believe that with stronger relations, the two countries will promote more cultural and talent exchanges.

(Cover: File photo. /VCG Photo)