Japan, China enter 2006 with problems beset by more problems
(Kyodo)
Updated: 2005-12-30 16:53

The two countries last held negotiations in Tokyo for two days through Oct. 1, and while they agreed at the time to meet again in Beijing later that month, a subsequent meeting has yet to take place.

"We had hoped to hold the talks by the end of the year, but the deterioration of bilateral ties did not allow the Chinese Foreign Ministry to prompt other sectors of the government involved in the talks to get together for negotiations again," the Japanese diplomat said. "We do, however, hope the talks can be held by the end of January."

Public sentiment toward each other also deteriorated in 2005.

In a Japanese government survey released in December, a record-low 32.4 percent of respondents said they feel good about China, down 5.2 points from a year ago.

In 2006, Japanese domestic politics are expected to have a major impact on Japan-China ties.

In particular focus is whether Koizumi will end the premiership he has held since 2001 as he has said he would and who will take over his post if he steps down.

Opinion on the impact of the end of Koizumi's premiership is divided, with some saying it will not help improve bilateral ties at all.

While the end of Koizumi's premiership would mean the end of his visits to Yasukuni Shrine as premier, some of his potential successors are strong supporters of Yasukuni visits.