The government played up on Monday the importance of Saturday's meeting between Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi and Chinese President Hu Jintao, where the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to salvage relations.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Hiroyuki Hosoda told a news conference, "It was very significant" that Koizumi and Hu agreed to work on improving ties which have been seriously soured in the wake of anti-Japan rallies in China.
The top government spokesman also said it is "important" that the two countries strengthen their alliance over various issues as it would be of benefit to the international community.