Japan lawmakers to visit China in bid to cool row, but thaw unlikely: experts

A cross-party group of Japanese lawmakers is expected to visit China from August 24 to 27, aiming to de-escalate a diplomatic row that has chilled relations for the past 10 months. Reports indicate this delegation marks the first parliamentary visit between the two neighbors since their ties soured.

While the trip is seen as carrying "pronounced" symbolic weight, Chinese experts express skepticism about its potential to foster a genuine thaw in relations. The visit is intended to address ongoing tensions, but underlying issues are expected to prevent a significant improvement in bilateral ties.

Bilateral relations between Japan and China have been in a state of bitter chill for nearly a year. Despite the lawmakers' efforts, experts suggest that the fundamental challenges in their relationship will likely persist, making a substantial improvement in diplomatic or economic ties unlikely in the near future.