Xi extends sympathy to Japanese PM over COVID-19 infection

This combo photo shows Chinese President Xi Jinping (left) and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. (PHOTOS / XINHUA)

BEIJING – Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday sent a message of sympathy to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida over the latter's COVID-19 infection.

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In his message, Xi said that upon learning of Kishida's infection with the coronavirus, he would like to extend his sincere sympathy to the prime minister, and wish him a speedy recovery.

Noting that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the normalization of China-Japan diplomatic relations, Xi said he would like to work with Kishida to promote the building of China-Japan relations that meet the needs of the new era.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang also sent a message to Kishida to express his sympathy on the same day.

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