(Xinhua)
Updated: 2007-12-15 11:30

Japanese Prime Minister Yasao Fukuda (R) meets with chief of the China-Japan Friendship Association Song Jian in Tokyo, Japan, Dec. 14, 2007. [Xinhua]

TOKYO -- Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda told visiting China-Japan Friendship Association President Song Jian Friday that he hopes to enhance cooperation and exchange with China.

Fukuda told Song at the prime minister's office that Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao's visit to Japan in April has promoted cooperation and exchange between the two countries in various areas. Fukuda said he wants to visit China as soon as possible and wants to welcome Chinese President Hu Jintao during his planned visit to Japan next year, according to diplomats.

The Japanese premier said that he hoped that through joint efforts the young people in the two countries can understand each other better. Fukuda said he hoped Japan and China can promote cooperation in personnel, environmental protection and other areas.

During the meeting, Song said he hoped Fukuda can visit China at an early time and the bilateral ties can be further strengthened by Fukuda's visit and Hu's visit to Japan next year.