Japanese visit opens door to rebuilding ties

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe spoke highly of a recent visit to China by the leader of his party's coalition partner New Komeito.

In response to the call of China's top political leader Xi Jinping to improve ties, the Japanese prime minister said the door to dialogue is still open.

Observers said the two sides have demonstrated restraint and suggest dialogue be enhanced to mend ties damaged by the island disputes.