The 7th Sino-Japan defense and security talks were held in Tokyo on Wednesday afternoon between the Chinese PLA's Assistant to the Chief of General Staff Zhang Qinsheng and Japanese Defense Agency Vice Minister Takemasa Moriya.

 

Both sides exchanged ideas on the international and regional security situation, national defense policies and troop build-ups, the Sino-Japanese ties and trans-military relations and other issues of both concern.

 

The two countries pledged to strengthen dialogue in the security field according to the common stand reached by leaders from the two countries, and further promote the development of bilateral defense communications, including high-level exchanges.

 

The Chinese side reiterated its stand on important issues like the Taiwan issue, and expressed its willingness to see Japan continue its peaceful road.

 

The talks were held with the hope that a summit meeting could be realized and the Sino-Japanese relations enjoy a new prospect. The talks will play a positive role in promoting understanding and mutual trust between the two sides in security field and in further developing the ties between the defense organs of the two countries.

 

Lieutenant General Zhang and his entourage arrived in Japan on Tuesday. He has also met with Japanese Defense Agency Director General Fumio Kyuma.

 

(Xinhua News Agency November 30, 2006)