The spokeswoman for China's Foreign Ministry has urged Japan to pay sufficient attention to the concerns of countries in the region and contribute more to promote regional peace and stability.

"Developments concerning Japan are closely watched by its Asian neighboring countries for historical reasons," Hua Chunying told a regular press conference in Beijing on Thursday, responding to a reporter's question on Japanese leaders' recent comments on historical issues.

She also expressed hope that Japan could adhere to peaceful development and take history as a mirror.

"History is like a mirror," Hua said, adding that one could truly embrace the future only after honestly facing the past.

The spokeswoman pointed out that history would not be altered by words or acts from individuals, urging that Japan should, in a responsible manner, repent over its history and regain trust from its Asian neighbors and international community through real actions.

(Xinhua News Agency May 2, 2013)