A key adviser to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe agreed Friday with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on the need for the two nations' top leaders to hold talks as both nations seek improved bilateral relations despite persistent differences over wartime, territorial and security issues.
"Currently, China-Japan relations have opportunities and also face challenges," Li told Shotaro Yachi shortly after they met in Beijing.
"I believe this visit has positive significance in bringing bilateral relations back to a normal track," Li said at the Zhongnanhai leadership compound.