Abe 'hypocritical' on developing relations with China: FM

A Chinese spokeswoman said on Monday that Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was hypocritical on developing relations with China.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying made the remarks at a regular press briefing when she was asked to comment on Abe's words during a news conference when he said he wanted to meet Chinese leaders and explain why he visited the Yasukuni shrine.

Hua said Abe was hypocritical on developing relations with China since he assumed office with actions jeopardizing overall China-Japan relations and hurting the Chinese people.

"Abe's alleged emphasis on developing ties with China is hypocritical and he himself closed the door of dialogue with Chinese leaders," Hua said, listing Abe's recent moves, including visiting the Yasukuni shrine against China's strong opposition and serious representations, openly abandoning the four political documents between the two countries, and undermining the political foundation of bilateral relations.

"The Chinese people don't welcome such a Japanese leader," Hua added.

If Abe wants to improve relations with neighboring countries, he needs to have a correct understanding and thorough reflection on Japanese history of military invasion and colonialism, Hua said, noting that Abe should make concrete efforts in this regard.