Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao meets with Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso who is in Beijing to attend the 7th summit of the Asia-Europe Meeting, October 24, 2008. [Xinhua]

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said on Friday that he was glad to meet with Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso and was willing to exchange opinions on issues of mutual concern with him.

The Japanese prime minister is in Beijing to attend the seventh summit of the Asia-Europe Meeting slated for Friday afternoon.

Wen also welcomed him to come for the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the signing of the China-Japan Treaty of Peace and Friendship "despite his busy agenda shortly after assuming office," which Wen said showed Aso's high concern over Asia-Europe cooperation and Sino-Japanese ties.

Aso appreciated China's efforts for hosting the summit and congratulated China's successful hosting of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

Aso said he was delighted to visit China and meet Wen again at the memorable moment when the two countries celebrate the 30th anniversary of the signing of the China-Japan Treaty of Peace and Friendship.

Wen made an official visit to Japan in April 2007, when Aso served as the foreign minister in Shinzo Abe's cabinet.

(Xinhua News Agency October 24, 2008)