China has been making efforts to advance Sino-Japanese relations from strategic perspectives and for lasting Sino-Japanese friendship, said President Hu Jintao in Beijing Wednesday.

In meeting with Speaker Kono Yohei of Japan's House of Representatives, Hu reiterated that to advance bilateral relations both China and Japan should keep drawing lessons from history and looking to the future in the spirit of the three political documents signed between the two countries, including the Sino-Japanese Joint Statement.

Hu also called for deepening exchanges and expanding cooperation. "Only this way can the two nations promote bilateral relations in a healthy and stable way and create a more beautiful future for friendly Sino-Japanese cooperation."

Recalling the positive results achieved since the two countries normalized diplomatic relations, Hu spoke highly of the outstanding contribution the several generations of Kono Yohei's family have made to the development of bilateral relations.

"Sino-Japanese friendship needs to be cherished, developed and passed from one generation to the next," said Hu.

Kono Yohei arrived in Beijing on Sept. 20 on his visit to China as guest of Chinese top legislator Wu Bangguo.

Since they normalized diplomatic relations 32 years ago, the two countries have overcome various difficulties and seen long-term cooperation in economy and culture, said Kono Yohei.
 
Kono Yohei said that the two countries should work to solve problems in political relations, and work jointly to enhance cooperation and achieve stability and development in Asia and the world at large.

(Xinhua News Agency September 23, 2004)