Xi extends condolences over death of Japan's former PM Yasuo Fukuda

BEIJING - Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday extended condolences over the death of former Japanese prime minister Yasuo Fukuda to his family.

In his message, Xi also extended sympathy to the family.

Fukuda was a Japanese statesman known for his integrity and sense of responsibility, as well as a longtime friend of the Chinese people. He had long been committed to the China-Japan friendship and upheld a correct view of history, Xi said.

During his tenure as prime minister, he signed the fourth political document between China and Japan with the Chinese side, setting out important principles for the development of bilateral relations, Xi said.

Fukuda also served as chairman of the Boao Forum for Asia, playing an important role in promoting exchanges and cooperation in Asia, Xi said, noting that China will remember his contributions to China-Japan relations and Asia's development.

Xi also expressed the hope that Fukuda's family would carry on his legacy and continue to work for China-Japan friendship.

Xi expressed the hope that Japanese authorities would cherish the efforts of previous generations of statesmen, abide by the four political documents between China and Japan, and safeguard the political foundation of bilateral relations.