Japan must deal with issues left from the past, such as the forced recruitment of "comfort women" with honesty and responsibility, said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian at a regular press briefing in Beijing on Wednesday.
He made the comments in response to a media query about the grave concern of multiple international human rights special mechanisms over Japan's denial of the right of "comfort women" victims to seek truth and compensation.
"The forced recruitment of 'comfort women' constituted a grave crime committed by Japanese militarism and a severe violation of the rights of the victims. The evidence is irrefutable and undeniable. The international community has expressed strong indignation over this crime," he said.
"For a long time, certain forces within Japan have persistently attempted to deny or even distort the history of the forced recruitment of 'comfort women.' China expresses grave concern over Japan's incorrect and dishonest attitude and practices toward its history of aggression. We have made our position clear again this time. Japan should deeply reflect on its history of aggression and on the profound suffering its crimes inflicted upon victims. It must address issues left from the past, such as the forced recruitment of 'comfort women' in an honest and responsible manner and earn the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community with concrete actions," said Lin.
Japan must address 'comfort women' issue responsibly: spokesman
Japan must address 'comfort women' issue responsibly: spokesman
