BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Both China and the Republic of Korea (ROK) insist that Japan should face up to and reflect on history, said a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman.

"China and ROK are strategic partners of cooperation. The two countries are keeping close communication and consultation on issues of common concern," said Foreign Minister spokeswoman Hua Chunying in response to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit to the Yasukuni Shrine, at a regular press briefing.

She said the two countries had similar experiences of Japan's history and both felt indignation at Abe's Shrine visit. Only if Japan has a correct conception of the history, can it develop a future-oriented relationship with its neighbors.

Abe's visit to the Yasukuni Shrine, where 14 WWII Class-A war criminals are honored, on Dec. 26, is the first by a serving Japanese prime minister since 2006.

Former Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi's annual visits to the shrine during his tenure from 2001 to 2006 were a major factor that affected the ties between Japan and its Asian neighbors.

ROK President Park Geun-hye on Monday criticized Japan for "digging into wounds of the past." Should a country repeat acts that do not match universal values and standards of the international community, it can never be assessed as a first-class nation, no matter how affluent it is, Park said, according to the Yonhap News Agency.

"We have noticed President Park's remarks," said Hua, adding China will keep communication with ROK, and jointly maintain the historical justice and peace and stability of the region.

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