Statement by Prime Minister Ryutaro Hashimoto on the Passing Away of His Excellency Deng Xiaoping of China

(Provisional Translation)

February 20, 1997

It is with deep grief that I have learned of the passing away of His Excellency Deng Xiaoping.

His Excellency Deng Xiaoping crafted the modernization policies for China, which consisted of the reform and open policies, and pushed forward these policies with great force. In addition, His Excellency Deng Xiaoping leaves behind a great legacy of contribution to the development of the friendly and cooperative relations between Japan and China, beginning with the conclusion of the Treaty of Peace and Friendship between Japan and the People's Republic of China. His Excellency Deng Xiaoping visited Japan on two occasions, once in 1978 and once in 1979. Furthermore, he had close discussions with many Japanese people from diverse sectors who visited China. These facts clearly indicate the importance which His Excellency attached to developing relations between Japan and China and to promoting mutual understanding.

With the great changes underway in the international situation. the good relations between Japan and China are becoming increasingly important for the peace and stability of the Asia-Pacific region and for those of the world as a whole. I intend to continue to make even greater efforts in cooperation with the leaders of China to achieve the stable development of the friendly relations between Japan and China over the long term.

I would like to express my sadness on the passing away of His Excellency Deng Xiaoping and express my heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family and to the Government and people of China.