China’s official military newspaper has accused Japan of distorting the record of its wartime aggression, denouncing the island nation’s lack of “respect for history” and warning that such actions risk repeating past tragedies.
In a commentary on Monday, PLA Daily said Japanese right-wing forces were systematically whitewashing the country’s wartime atrocities as the international community was commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and the global victory against fascism.
“Memorial halls, supposed to be sacred places for remembering history and passing on memories, have been reduced to tools for tampering with history and a fig leaf for covering up crimes under the manipulation of Japanese right-wing forces,” it added.
The commentary appeared as Beijing and Tokyo’s relations have hit a new low, stemming from remarks made last month by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi about Taiwan.
For decades, China has urged Japan to face its past aggression honestly to bolster trust and stability. Beijing and others affected by Tokyo’s wartime actions closely watch the island nation’s domestic debates on history, as unresolved historical disputes continue to strain diplomacy and shape public opinion.