Neighbors show their shared resolve to keep ties on track

Confucius, China's ancient philosopher, said that at the age of 40, one shall have no more doubts.

Forty years ago, China and Japan, whose cultures have both been deeply influenced by Confucian thought, concluded their Treaty of Peace and Friendship, which came into effect on Oct 23, 1978. Since then, the treaty has served as the ballast that has enabled the two neighbors to right the ship of their relations whenever stormy waters have threatened to sink it.

On Thursday evening, Premier Li Keqiang and visiting Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe celebrated the 40th anniversary of the treaty and expressed their shared confidence the two countries are still on the right course and they will continue to adhere to the guiding principles of the treaty.