China expresses condolences over death of Japanese artist Toshiyuki Nishida

BEIJING, Oct. 18 (Xinhua) -- China expresses condolences over the death of Japanese anti-war artist Toshiyuki Nishida, foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Friday.

According to reports, renowned Japanese actor and singer Nishida, who is also known as a prominent advocate for peace and friendly relations with China, died at home on Oct. 17.

Nishida, a performing artist beloved by the people of both China and Japan, was a member of the Japan-China Cultural Exchange Association, Mao said at a regular press briefing in response to a relevant query.

Nishida advocated for reflecting on the history of war and cherishing peace, and took an active part in China-Japan cultural exchanges, making contributions to enhancing friendly relations between the two peoples, the spokesperson said.

"We express our condolences and extend our sympathies to Nishida's family," Mao said.

"We look forward to and believe that the people of China and Japan will uphold their original aspirations and persist in being friendly neighbors," Mao added.