Chinese State Councilor Yang Jiechi and Japanese National Security Advisor Shotaro Yachi co-chaired the fourth round of joint political dialogue on Monday.

Yang said China's relations with Japan are at an important juncture with both new opportunities and outstanding challenges, as 2017 marks the 45th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the two countries. 

Both should remind themselves of the original intention behind normalizing ties, use history as a mirror while facing the future, and push for the continuous enhancement of relations based on the spirit of four important political documents and the four-point principle agreement reached in November 2014, Yang said.

Yang also said that China attaches importance to developing relations with Japan. He called on Japan to conform to implement the consensus that the two countries are cooperative partners and that China's development is an opportunity for Japan.

Yang also urged Japan to abide by the relevant rules regarding issues related to Taiwan and make joint efforts to safeguard peace and stability in the East China Sea.

He also requested Japan speak and act cautiously regarding the South China Sea issue and play a constructive role as countries in the region continue with efforts to properly resolve the issue. 

Welcoming Japan to discuss cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, Yang said both sides should speed up the transformation and upgrading of economic and trade cooperation, and seek to expand cooperation in new areas.

Photo of a caravan in desert in Gansu Province, China. /VCG Photo‍

Yachi said that cooperation between China and Japan is vital to the region. He said that Japan's stance on Taiwan and other historical issues has not changed and Japan is dedicated to improving relations with China and is willing to make joint efforts to enhance exchanges at all levels and properly manage disputes.

Both sides also exchanged views on international and regional issues.

(Source: Xinhua)