Sea, air link gets boost

Mechanism to avoid accidental clashes will go ahead 'as soon as possible', says defense ministry

The Ministry of National Defense has agreed to push forward a proposed mechanism by which China and Japan would manage maritime and air communications, but it did not confirm reports that it would sign an agreement.

"The two nations held further discussions of technical issues on how to establish the mechanism and reached a consensus on some issues. We agreed to initiate preparations to establish the mechanism as soon as possible. From now on, we will continue consultation on related issues," ministry spokesman Yang Yujun said.