China sincerely invites world leaders for WWII commemorations

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi speaks at a press conference in Beijing on the sidelines of the annual meeting of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature, on Sunday. [Photo by Feng Yongbin with China Daily]

Japan "must not lose its conscience" when asked to face up to its wartime history and China welcomes leaders who are sincere about coming to the China-based commemorative events marking the 70th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese people's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Sunday.

Wang made the remarks at a press conference in Beijing on the sidelines of the annual meeting of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature.

Historical issues have continued to haunt Sino-Japanese relations. When asked about Tokyo's attitude toward its wartime past, Wang said: "Those in power in Japan should first ask themselves what they have done in this regard, and of course people worldwide will reach their own conclusion."

"Seventy years ago, Japan lost the war. Seventy years later, Japan must not lose its conscience," Wang said.

"Will it continue to carry the baggage of history or will it make a clean break with its past aggression? Ultimately, the choice is Japan's," Wang said.

China will hold a military parade to commemorate the victory, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said earlier this month. Other events to mark the anniversary include a rally, reception and evening gala in Beijing.

"This is consistent with the practice of other countries and is perfectly normal and natural. Our goal is to remember history, commemorate the martyrs, cherish peace and look to the future," Wang said.

Replying to a question about whether China will invite Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to the events, Wang said: "We will extend an invitation to the leaders of all relevant countries and international organizations, and we welcome the participation of anyone who is sincere about coming."