China-Japan collaboration bearing fruit

"When Japan's precision manufacturing technology combines with China's bold AI innovation, the result is an unstoppable force. Together, we can achieve an extraordinary level of technological and industrial cooperation," he said.

Tomoyoshi Kimura, a former NHK journalist, said China's development is not just about catching up with other countries — it is about expanding into new frontiers.

"Rather than simply chasing after others, China is carving out new areas of advancement. While it does not follow Japan's industrial model, it has recognized the significance of foundational technologies and is actively integrating small and medium-sized enterprises into its economic strategy," Kimura said.

China's advancements in Deep-Seek exploration and the practical application of small-scale robotics in everyday life have captured global attention. Additionally, its progress in autonomous driving has impressed Japanese tourists, who were among the first to experience driverless taxis. These breakthroughs highlight China's remarkable capacity for innovation, said Kiyomi Seno, chairman of the Japan-China Society.

Seno noted that the world is undergoing a once-in-a-century geopolitical shift. "Amid this transformation, China has set its annual growth target at around 5 percent, reaffirming its strong commitment to economic expansion. Additionally, by further liberalizing its institutional frameworks and enhancing international cooperation, China is providing a sense of hope and stability to the global economy," he said.