China, Japan seek better ties

China and Japan continue to work towards stronger ties as Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan meets with Japanese leaders in Tokyo.

During a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda Thursday, Tang said China is willing to work with Japan to carefully implement agreements reached between Chinese leaders and Fukuda at the end of last year.

He called on both sides to strengthen exchanges and cooperation, and properly deal with sensitive issues to push the relations into a new stage.

He noted President Hu Jintao's state visit to Japan scheduled for the spring bears great significance in pushing forward the continuous development of bilateral ties.

Fukuda said President Hu will be warmly welcomed and the Japanese government will make joint efforts with the Chinese side to ensure the success of the visit.

Fukuda and Tang also agreed to strengthen cooperation in ensuring food safety.

Tang also met with Japan's House of Representatives Speaker Yohei Kono and Satsuki Eda, president of Japan's House of Councilors.

Tang said he appreciates Kono and Eda's continued commitment to the Sino-Japanese friendship.

He also praised the establishment of a committee supporting the Beijing Olympics within the Japanese parliament.