ID :
321672
Mon, 03/24/2014 - 11:23
Auther :

Dutch Prem. Rutte Wants Japan to Mend Fences with China, S. Korea

The Hague, March 23 (Jiji Press)--Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands expressed hopes in a meeting with his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe on Sunday that Tokyo will mend fences with China and South Korea. During the meeting in The Hague, Abe said, "Japan has been responding in a calm manner from a broad perspective. Its stance is that doors to dialogue are always open," according to Japanese officials. Rutte was quoted as replying that it is important that dialogue will be promoted between Japan and China and between Japan and South Korea. Abe emphasized that Japan places importance on future-oriented diplomacy while facing the past sincerely. He said that Japan will continue programs to cure emotional pain of Dutch people who were detained and mistreated by the now-defunct Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. When Abe requested support for his "proactive pacifism" policy, Rutte said he understands Japan's active efforts in the international community. The two leaders confirmed that the two seafaring countries will cooperate as strategic partners that share fundamental values such as the rule of law. Regarding the situation in Ukraine, Abe emphasized that changing the status quo by force can never been tolerated. With China's coercive behavior in the East China Sea in mind, Abe said the Ukraine crisis is not just a regional issue but a global one. Abe and Rutte shared the recognition that a peaceful solution to the crisis is important. END

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