China urges Abe to abide by former statements on history

The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Tuesday urged Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to abide by previous statements issued by former prime ministers on war anniversaries.

Spokesman Hong Lei's remarks came after Abe said on Monday that he will follow the "basic way of thinking" in the previous statements but "[doesn't] need to write them again."

Hong told a routine press briefing that the Japanese leader's statement on the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II will be a "touchstone" for the international community to judge whether Japan will choose a path of peaceful development.

Hong called on the Japanese side to earnestly listen to the voice of justice at home and abroad and show sincerity.

Abe suggested Monday during an appearance on a TV news program that he is not concerned about whether key phrases from previous statements will be repeated in the statement he plans to issue on the war anniversary, according to a Kyodo report.

As for Abe sending a ritual offering to the notorious Yasukuni Shrine on Tuesday, Hong said: "The Japanese side should face up to and deeply reflect on the history of invasion and properly handle the issue, especially as this year marks the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II."

He also urged Japan to regain trust from neighboring countries and the international community through practical action.

Abe dedicated a "masakaki" tree offering to the shrine, which honors Japan's war dead, including 14 Class-A criminals of World War II.