"Wen Jiabao's speech is well-structured, comprehensive and balanced. We should not forget the painful events of the past like the Japanese aggression during World War II. But at the same time, we also should not forget the good memories in our long history that have brought our two countries closer. 

 

From the beginning to the very end of his 40-minute speech, Wen kept referring to the touching stories, including those right after the invading Japanese troops left Chinese territory, which have moved the two neighbors forward.

 

It shows that China has been seeking common ground, while calling for Japan to face the reality of history and territorial disputes."

 

Jin Xide

 

A researcher at the Institute of Japanese Studies, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences

 

"Both in his meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe or in his speech in the parliament, Wen said Taiwan represents the core interest of China.

 

The Taiwan question is unavoidable between China and Japan if the two want to keep their bilateral relations on the right track.

 

Japan should conform to the three communiqus signed between the two countries, especially the part on Taiwan, to ensure that some right-wing politicians and Taiwan separatists don't sour the relations again."

 

Liu Jiangyong

 

Professor of International Relations in the Institute of International Studies, Tsinghua University

 

"China and Japan both have promised to improve bilateral relations. Whether the promises can really be realized depends on mutual trust and concrete action. 

 

The fact that Wen Jiabao has highlighted mutual trust in his five proposals shows that China is very sincere about establishing China-Japan strategic relations that are mutually beneficiary.

 

The visits of Shinzo Abe and Wen have helped create a pleasant atmosphere in which more specific and sensitive issues will be discussed.

 

Wang Shaopu

 

Deputy head of the Research Institute of Asia and Pacific, under the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences

 

(China Daily April 13, 2007)