Global Times:

My question is for Mr. Kobayashi Yokichi. As a descendant of an Eighth Route Army soldier, you have participated in numerous China-Japan friendship events. On this significant occasion marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, how do you think we can better carry forward and promote the spirit of anti-war soldiers like your father, in a bid to foster mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of the two countries? Thank you.

Kobayashi Yokichi:

Thank you for your question. At the invitation of the Chinese government, I participated in the commemorations of the 60th and 70th anniversaries of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, respectively in 2005 and 2015, and received commemorative medals. This time, I have once again been invited by the Chinese government to take part in the commemoration of the 80th anniversary. I see this as both a tribute to my father and a recognition of his deeds, and it is truly the greatest honor and source of pride in my life. Today, as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, the purpose is to remind people not to forget history and to cherish peace, and to emphasize that today's Japan needs to draw lessons from history more than ever. China and Japan are neighboring countries separated by a narrow strip of sea. Our people have enjoyed thousands of years of traditional friendship. Nevertheless, no one should forget the brutal chapters in our bilateral relations — times of invasion and suffering. The atrocities committed by Japanese imperialism during its aggression against China should be made known to the world, so that people will remember them firmly. A nation’s self-reflection matters far more than another’s forgiveness. Only those with the courage to confront their own past can truly earn the respect of the world. Thank you.

Zhou Li:

Thank you, Mr. Kobayashi Yokichi Due to time constraints, we will have one last question.