Mr Wen noted that bilateral ties have improved considerably recently and that the two countries should grasp this chance to bring their mutually beneficial and strategic relations to new heights.

Meanwhile, Mr Fukuda said that there are big opportunities and challenges ahead for bilateral ties and the two countries should strengthen cooperation for the future of Asia and the rest of the world.

Host and guest reached a consensus on the need to conduct negotiations aimed at resolving issues related to the East China Sea in the interest of the two countries

They also condemned the killing of Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto on December 27, considering it a terrorist attack.

The two leaders witnessed the signing of three agreements on youth exchange, scientific and technological cooperation and energy research.

Later, the Japanese PM met with President Hu Jintao and Chairman of the National People’s Congress Wu Bangguo and delivered a speech at the Beijing University.