Qian said this year, marking the 30th anniversary of the normalization of Sino-Japanese ties, provided a good opportunity for the two countries to develop bilateral relations.

Both had launched a number of commemorative activities, which had further boosted mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples and created a good atmosphere for the long-term development of their relations, he said.

Kawaguchi said she was pleased to visit China at such an important time. Japan and China, with a long history of contact, should forge a new type of relationship in the 21st century, she said, pledging her efforts to promote the growth of bilateral ties.

The two also discussed bilateral relations and regional and international issues of common concern.

Kawaguchi briefed Qian on Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi's forthcoming visit to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Qian expounded on China's stance on the Korean Peninsula issue, noting the improvement of relations among countries in the region is conducive to peace and stability in northeastern Asia.

( September 10, 2002)