A senior Chinese official on Thursday called on Japanese political figures to take practical steps to improve strained bilateral relations between China and Japan. Lu Kang, vice minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the appeal during a meeting with a bipartisan delegation of Japanese lawmakers visiting Beijing.

The group, led by Shinichi Isa, a Lower House member of the Centrist Reform Alliance, marks the first such visit by Japanese parliamentarians since tensions escalated following comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in November. Takaichi’s remarks hinted at possible military involvement in the Taiwan Strait, which Beijing has strongly opposed.

Lu acknowledged serious difficulties in China-Japan relations, attributing them to clear causes rooted in historical issues, the Taiwan question, and other major political principles. He emphasized that these factors have eroded the political foundation and mutual trust crucial for stable ties. Lu urged Japanese politicians to discern right from wrong, encourage those in power to adhere to the principles outlined in the four political documents governing bilateral relations, and to handle the Taiwan issue strictly in line with the one-China policy.

Expressing concern over the current state of affairs, Shinichi Isa highlighted the importance of positive relations not only for the two nations but also for the broader Asian region and international community. Isa stated that Japan is deeply committed to maintaining open communication channels with China to help restore a constructive relationship.

At a news conference, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian identified the root cause of the difficulties as the “erroneous remarks and actions” by Japan’s governing authorities on Taiwan and in military and security matters. Lin called on Japan to listen to voices of reason within the country, acknowledge mistakes, and take concrete measures to safeguard the political foundations of China-Japan relations.

The delegation visiting Beijing includes Isa alongside Liberal Democratic Party Lower House member Gaku Hashimoto and Komeito Upper House member Yudai Kawamura. Earlier this month, Isa, who previously served as a diplomat at the Japanese embassy in China, noted on social media that bilateral ties had deteriorated to their lowest point since the normalization of relations in 1972. He described the current situation as contrary to the national interests of both countries and said the Chinese side had agreed to provide a limited channel for dialogue with the Japanese lawmakers.

This visit comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the challenges facing China-Japan relations, which remain influenced by long-standing historical grievances and divergent positions on regional security issues.