Premier Li Keqiang urged Japan on July 17 to keep its word on issues related to wartime history and handle differences in a responsible manner, following the passage of Japan’s security bills that will expand the role of Japan’s Self-Defense Forces.

Premier Li made the remarks when meeting Shotaro Yachi, head of Japan’s National Security Council and a key adviser to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, in Beijing.

He said despite the hope to improve ties, China’s relations with Japan are still sensitive and complicated.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the world war against fascism, the Premier said. “The relationship faces both opportunities and challenges.”

He urged Japan to seriously address concerns of Asian countries that suffered from the war, and handle related issues with a sense of responsibility.

“The Chinese government pays close attention to its relations with Japan and is willing to expand bilateral ties based on the four-point principled agreement,” he said.

Prior to a meeting between President Xi Jinxing and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe last year, the two sides reached a four-point principled agreement to improve bilateral ties, in which they agreed to resume political, diplomatic and security dialogues while acknowledging different positions on the Diaoyu Islands.

Yachi told Premier Li that Japan will face up to historical issues, handle differences in a proper way and stick to the road of peace and development, according to a statement released after the meeting.