China on Tuesday welcomed Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso to visit China at a time of convenience of both sides.

"This would help keep the high level visits between China and Japan, and advance the development of the strategic and mutually beneficial relationship between the two nations," Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang told a regular press conference.

China and Japan were important neighbors for each other. "We value the relations with Japan," he said.

China was ready to keep contacts with Japan on the specific schedule of Aso's China visit, he noted.

Leaders and delegates from 45 Asian and European countries and organizations will gather in Beijing for the Seventh Summit of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) from Oct. 24 to 25.

"Prime Minister Aso is welcomed to attend the summit," Qin said.

(Xinhua News Agency October 8, 2008)