Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi and his visiting Canadian counterpart Jean Chretien reaffirmed Friday that Japan and Canada will further strengthen their partnership for the 21st century not only in bilateral areas but on the global stage as well.

Their resolve for enhanced partnership was compiled in a document that outlines objectives for Japan-Canada cooperation in trade, investment, space technology, development aid, peace-building and other areas.

"The government welcomes the fact that members of Team Canada had extensive, fruitful discussions with Japanese businesses, which will pave the way for our enhanced ties," Obuchi told reporters after their talks Friday at the Prime Minister's Official Residence.