China to Japan: Work harder if you want to be my friend

THE visit by Japan's foreign minister to Beijing over the weekend marks the first tangible sign of progress in improving Sino-Japanese relations since both countries indicated last year an interest in ending the state of virtual hostility that has persisted since 2012, when China halted normal relations in the wake of Japan's nationalisation of islands disputed by the two countries.

The talks between Foreign Minister Taro Kono and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi reflected Japan's pursuit of improved relations, and a lack of enthusiasm on the part of the Chinese.

Last week, [JAN. 22]Prime Minister Shinzo Abe delivered a policy address in which he voiced the hope of Japan and China working together "to meet the growing infrastructure demand in Asia", an allusion to Japanese willingness to take part in the China-founded Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank boycotted by the United States, Japan's ally.