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BEIJING, Sept. 12 (Xinhua) -- China on Monday expressed deep condolences at the death of Koichi Kato, former president of the Japan-China Friendship Association (JCFA).
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying made the remarks at a routine press briefing when asked about the death of Koichi Kato, a former secretary general of Japan's Liberal Democratic Party, on September 9.
"Mr. Koichi Kato is not only a notable Japanese stateman, but also an old friend of the Chinese people," Hua said.
Noting that Koichi Kato had long been committed to China-Japan friendship, Hua said the Chinese side highly appreciates his significant contributions to the development of bilateral ties and diplomatic exchanges.
Born in 1939, Koichi Kato was president of JCFA between 2008 and 2015.
