Japan warship on first China visit

A Japanese navy destroyer has arrived in the southern province of Guangdong for a five day visit. This is the first appearance by a Japanese warship in China since the end of World War II. The visit follows a trip to Japan by a Chinese missile destroyer late last year.

A welcoming ceremony was held for the ship's arrival, along with a ceremony marking the delivery of quake aid from the Japanese Defense Ministry and Self Defense Forces.

The relief materials, including food, blankets, hygiene masks and other items, will be unloaded Wednesday and transported to the quake zone by train. During the ship's call in China, officers from both countries will visit each other's warships and hold seminars and other activities.

The Japanese ship will also be open for tours by local residents. The visit was arranged by the consensus of both countries' top leaders. The two sides say the exchange will help consolidate understanding and friendship.