China seeks practical gains in ties with Japan - The Daily Yomiuri
Japan’s Daily Youmiuri had an editorial about Wen Jiabao’s visit today:
With the 17th Chinese Communist Party convention scheduled for autumn, the Hu administration has entered a new political phase in which he must secure domestic stability and strengthen the administration’s political foundation.
Since Hu must concentrate on realigning the leadership system, including making appointments to party and government posts, he cannot afford to cross swords with Japan over diplomatic issues.
If Beijing leaves the bilateral relationship soured by bringing the history issue to the fore, Chinese people’s anti-Japan sentiment, like the anti-Japan demonstrations across China in 2005, could erupt at any time.
In addition, frequent social unrest, such as riots by farmers, triggered by corruption and the gap between rich and poor, has deepened social discord. [Full Text]
