Xi Jinping calls on Japan to confront history as leaders seek stable relations

China's President Xi Jinping met Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba for their first in-person talks since Ishiba took office in October. They discussed fostering stable relations and addressing key issues, including historical matters and Taiwan. Xi urged Japan to "face history squarely" and handle these major issues properly. He emphasized the need for increased collaboration to support global free trade and maintain stable supply chains, highlighting the intertwined economic interests of both nations. Both leaders are assessing the potential impact of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House on the Asia-Pacific power balance.