Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing (L1) shakes hands with Japan's House of Representatives Speaker Yohei Kono (R1) in Tokyo February 15, 2007.

During the meetings, Li hailed Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's successful visit to China last year, stating that the series of important agreements reached between leaders of the two countries had increased cooperation and exchanges between China and Japan.

Li addressed bilateral ties, applauding the positive direction they had taken of late and the new development opportunities that will soon be met.

This year is the 35th anniversary of the normalization of China-Japan diplomatic relations and Premier Wen Jiabao is set to pay official visit to Japan in April, Li noted, adding that China will work with Japan to make sure the upcoming visit is successful.

During his meetings, Li said that this year further marks the 70th anniversary of the Lugouqiao (Marco Polo Bridge) Incident. He availed himself of this platform to state that sensitive issues dealing with history or China's Taiwan should be treated appropriately thus maintain the positive political basis for Japan-China relations.

Kono, Shiozaki and Ota agreed with Li's views on bilateral relations. They all welcomed Premier Wen's visit and will also work to ensure the success of the visit. The Japanese government will abide by the joint communiqué in its handling of issues related with history or Taiwan, they said.

The two sides further discussed the East China Sea issue, environment and energy cooperation, youth exchange, international issues and other matters of mutual concern.

Li arrived in Tokyo Thursday morning to start his visit, following an invitation by Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Aso.

(Xinhua News Agency February 16, 2007)