The head of the Maritime Self-Defense Force on Monday repeated criticism of China's pursuit of territorial claims but called for a resumption of port and personnel visits, which have been suspended for several years amid rising tensions between Tokyo and Beijing.

Adm. Tomohisa Takei said exchange visits by senior naval personnel and warships are effective in improving relations between armed forces.

"They should be resumed as soon as possible," he told a Washington think tank. "Our door is open."