A1 The forum kicked off in 2005, a year of a major difficulty in bilateral ties, and the situation this year seems even harder. But we have seen an unparalleled yearning and perseverance from both sides for improving ties.

A2 Bilateral problems now go to a multilateral context... And 10 years ago, separate problems made headlines one by one. Territorial and historical issues flaring up almost simultaneously, resonating with each other to create a bigger impact.

A3 Neither side hopes to end up in a war, and there is a shared pursuit for a political settlement to ensure security in the Asia-Pacific region. The final breakthrough lies in finding common ground.

A4 Abe seems to be accelerating more radical defense policies to boost a military buildup. He knows that time is limited, and his term may end earlier if the domestic economy fails to improve in the near future.

 

A1 Compared to official channels, it has been a unique platform for both sides to know more thoroughly about the other side's strategic targets and considerations.

A2 The US pivot has re-ignited hidden issues between China and Japan...And Tokyo's defense policies have shifted in the past few years.

A3 The only feasible path is to rein in the contradictions and deepen cooperation. The confrontational, tense side of the relationship should be "watered down".

A4 Issues like territorial and historical ones are unlikely to be resolved overnight, especially when they are intertwined with each other.