China's Asian Affairs Department in the foreign ministry has closed its Japanese division, describing the move as a "normal administrative adjustment."
"I would like to point out that there is no change to China's foreign policy toward Japan," said Hong Lei, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a report by Sina.
According to nikkei.com, the Chinese foreign ministry had closed down its Japanese affairs office and merged it with the division for South Korea, North Korea and Mongolia. The new department will be renamed the Northeast Asia Office.
The report further adds that the restructuring will also affect other offices in order to arrange them according to geographic location.
The development comes amid China's recent military drills in disputed waters and its celebration of the 70th anniversary of victory against Japanese Imperial forces.
Statements made by China's foreign ministry have been unsuccessful in quelling speculation in Japan, as some suggest that the adjustment might have a negative effect on Sino-Japanese relations. The concern comes after the parliament enacted a new security bill that would allow Japanese self-defense forces to engage in offensive skirmishes with allies.
"The Japanese media has over-interpreted the move of the Chinese foreign ministry," said Zhang Lili, director of the International Studies Department at the China Foreign Affairs University. "The adjustment is normal and it is aimed at enhancing the efficiency of diplomatic work."
Zhang asserted that ties between the two countries ultimately depend on Japan's attitude and behavior when tackling certain sensitive issues such as wartime history.