China and Japan to Initiate Talks Strengthen Ties

China and Japan have agreed to establish talks on sensitive security matters as part of efforts to mend strained relations. This development comes after years of disputes ranging from territorial conflicts to Japan’s release of treated water from the Fukushima nuclear plant.

Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, on his first visit to Beijing since assuming office in October, met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Iwaya described the discussions as “candid” and extensive, expressing optimism about building a relationship that could shape future cooperation.

Wang Yi agreed to visit Japan next year for discussions on environmental conservation, energy, health, and nursing care.

Japan announced relaxed visa rules for Chinese visitors, while both countries plan to resume talks on Japanese beef and rice exports to China.

Japan raised concerns over China’s military presence near disputed islands and its activities in the South China Sea.

Iwaya called for lifting China’s ban on Japanese seafood, imposed after Japan discharged treated radioactive water from the Fukushima plant.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba previously pledged to strengthen ties during an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Peru. Premier Li emphasized that relations are at a “critical period of improvement and development,” expressing China’s willingness to work collaboratively with Japan.

Iwaya’s visit occurs amid global uncertainty as US President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office. Japan has adapted its defense strategy in response to China’s military actions, including boosting spending and shifting away from its self-defense-only policy.