China calls on Japan's new prime minister to uphold commitments, advance mutually beneficial ties

Beijing on Tuesday expressed hope that Japan will work with China to maintain the political foundation of bilateral ties and comprehensively advance a strategic relationship of mutual benefit.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun made the remarks at a regular news conference in Beijing when asked to comment on the election of Sanae Takaichi as Japan's?new prime minister on Tuesday.

"We have noted the result of the election," Guo said. "This is Japan's internal affair."

He stressed that China and Japan are close neighbors, and that China's position on bilateral relations has been consistent and clear.

"China hopes Japan will work with China in the same direction, adhere to the principles of the four political documents between the two countries, honor its political commitments on major issues such as history and Taiwan, safeguard the political foundation of bilateral relations, and comprehensively advance the strategic relationship of mutual benefit," Guo said.

Sanae Takaichi, president of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party, was officially elected the country's prime minister on Tuesday after winning in both houses of parliament, becoming the country's first female leader.