A South China Morning Post opinion piece argues that direct contact between Japanese and Chinese people can improve public images in both countries and help calm tensions between the two neighbors. [1]
The article says Japan and China are not locked in constant conflict. It points to continued cooperation and exchange in business, the economy, the environment, entertainment, academia and sister-city ties. [1]
It says the relationship remains vulnerable in security, territory, values, history and perception gaps. The piece argues that people-to-people exchanges can help narrow those divides by giving both sides a more direct view of the other. [1]
As an example of wider cooperation, it cites a green fertiliser plant in Bangladesh built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and China National Chemical Engineering and Construction Corporation Seven Ltd. The plant was completed in November 2023. [1]
The article also refers to a 2010 collision between a Chinese fishing trawler and 2 Japanese coastguard vessels. It says Chinese official media published a drawing the next day that showed Japanese boats ramming the trawler, which the piece uses to illustrate how media coverage can shape public perception. [1]
