“The two countries should properly manage differences by focusing on the bigger picture, seeking common ground while reserving differences,” Xi was quoted as saying by state broadcaster CCTV.
“Efforts should be made to prevent conflicts and disagreements from defining the broader bilateral relationship.”
The two leaders largely kept to the diplomatic groundwork laid out in previous meetings between the countries’ leaders, reaffirming their stance to pursue “a strategically and mutually beneficial relationship” and build constructive and stable ties.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi shakes hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping ahead of their talks in Gyeongju, South Korea, on Friday. Photo: Kyodo
For her part, Takaichi acknowledged the array of lingering issues and challenges between Tokyo and Beijing. But she voiced hope about tackling them head on and enhancing mutual understanding.