BEIJING, Aug. 14 -- China on Friday responded to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's statement marking the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II by asking Japan to sincerely apologize for its aggressive past.

"Japan should have given a clear account of the nature of the aggression war launched by Japanese militarists and its responsibility, offered sincere apologies to people of countries that suffered in the war, and broken with the militarism past rather than glossing over history," said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying.

Vice Foreign Minister Zhang Yesui also presented China's solemn stance to Japanese Ambassador to China Kitera Masato.

Hua said the war of aggression launched by Japanese militarists brought tragedy upon the people of China and other Asian nations.

Only through adopting correct view and proper attitude toward the history will the foundations for improved relations between Japan and other Asian countries be strong, she said.

Historical issues not only concern the political foundation of the China-Japan relationship but also the feeling of the Chinese people, said Hua.

China holds the spirit of learning from history and building a better future in high regard, she said, noting that only by facing up to history can a better future be ensured.

China urged Japan to refer to the statements and commitments it has made to China on historical issues since the normalization of China-Japan diplomatic relations, said Hua.

She called on Japan to recognize and reflect on its history of aggression, through concrete actions, and to follow the path of peaceful development to win the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community.

In the statement on Friday, Abe mentioned that previous cabinets had apologized for Japan's wartime past, but side-stepped offering his own.

He also said that Japan must not allow its future generations to "be predestined to apologize."