Premier Li Keqiang and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe both hailed the China-Japan Treaty of Peace and Friendship as the two leaders attended a ceremony commemorating the treaty’s 40th anniversary on May 10.

“As the 40th anniversary of the signing of the treaty comes, we should review its spirit and recognize that it is a crucial anchor for bilateral ties,” Premier Li said as he addressed those at the ceremony.

He said that both sides should follow the principles of the treaty and promote the China-Japan relationship back to the right track and realize long-term stable development. “It will be the best present for the 40th anniversary,” the Premier said.

Abe said in his toast that the treaty is just like a compass that lead Japan-China ties to overcome obstacles and keep moving forward.

“We both bear the important historical responsibility of developing Japan-China ties for the next 40 years. Here I promise again that I will make efforts with China to promote bilateral ties to the new phase,” he said.

At a news conference a day earlier, Premier Li said he hopes that the relationship between China and Japan could be back on track in a friendly and cooperative environment.

Abe expressed his agreement with the Premier’s remarks at the ceremony, adding that in regards to the relationship, the two nations entered a new era and both sides should work together for regional and world peace and stability.

Premier Li said China and Japan, as important neighbors and major economies, should honor the spirit of treaties between the two sides and stick to the path of friendly cooperation.

With insight, courage, and wisdom, the two nations could usher in a new future for bilateral ties, he added.

In his toast after the speech, Premier Li lightened the atmosphere when he said, “I can see wineglasses and phones all in your hands. I hope the friendly messages here could be conveyed to the world and the societies of both nations through your phones.”