China and South Korea Condemn Japanese Prime Minister’s Offering at Yasukuni Shrine

by Pooja Chauhan · 22/04/2024

On Monday, China voiced strong opposition to an offering made by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo, which both China and South Korea consider a symbol of Japan’s historical military aggression.

Kishida’s offering, a bonsai tree, was part of a ritual at the shrine, which was reported by Japanese media and included live images of a wooden plaque bearing the words “Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.”

During a regular press briefing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin responded to a question about the event, stating, “The Yasukuni shrine is dedicated to 14 Class-A war criminals who were seriously responsible for the aggressive war.” The shrine is controversial as it honors Japanese wartime leaders who were convicted as war criminals by an Allied tribunal.

Wang further emphasized, “The Chinese side firmly opposes Japan’s negative moves about the Yasukuni shrine. The Chinese foreign ministry and the Chinese embassy in Japan have made solemn statements to Japan, respectively.”

Additionally, South Korea expressed its discontent on Sunday regarding Kishida’s action, indicating “deep disappointment” and calling on Japanese leaders to demonstrate repentance for their actions during the war.

Also Read, PIF Acquires Majority Stake in TAWAL, Set to Create Largest Telecom Tower Company in the Region