Xi set to delay Japan visit over coronavirus crisis

Beijing and Tokyo to focus on combating growing outbreak

20200229 XiandAbe.jpg

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, left, and Chinese President Xi Jinping may have to wait for the coronavirus to run its course before meeting again. © Reuters

Nikkei staff writers

TOKYO -- Japan and China are discussing postponing Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit in April at least until the fall as both countries hope to prioritize combating the growing outbreak of the new coronavirus, sources said.

Officials in Beijing and Tokyo feel that preparing for a successful visit has become nearly impossible given the growing epidemic. The two sides will renegotiate the new dates based on their political and diplomatic schedules. Xi's state visit to Japan will be the first by a Chinese president since 2008. 

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