Japan navy destroyer on first China visit since WWII

During the ship's stay, officers from both sides will visit each other's warships and hold seminars to exchange experience with disaster relief and other activities. "Sazanami" will also be open to visits for local residents.

Major-Gen. Shinichi Tokumaru (Front) of the Japanese Maritime  Self-Defense Force inspects the guard of honour during a  welcoming ceremony held for the Sazanami's arrival in Zhanjiang,  south China's Guangdong Province on Tuesday, June 24, 2008. (Xinhua Photo)

"This is my first trip to China. I had been looking forward to this trip, and I'm very happy to be here now. I wish to know more about my Chinese counterparts," said Hiroyuki Shiosaki, a visiting staff trainer with the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force.

"Japan and China are neighboring countries, separated only by a strip of water. I think the hearts of the Japanese people and the Chinese people are also closely connected."

At a regular press briefing on Tuesday, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Liu Jianchao said the visit of the Japanese warship would enhance understanding, friendship and trust between the two countries.

The visit had been in accordance with the consensus of both countries' top leaders and the defence ministries had agreed on the details of the visit, Liu said, adding the cooperation and exchange on defence of the two countries would receive understanding and support from the people of both sides.

Editor:Zhang Ning