Japanese premier highlights alignment with China's Xi, emphasizes stronger ties

"Japan will work together with China to promote frequent bilateral communication and visits at all levels, including the summit level," Ishiba told reporters in Brazil after wrapping up his Latin America trip, which included the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in Peru and the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro.

According to Japanese public broadcaster NHK, Ishiba expressed hope that these initiatives would "reduce challenges and pending issues and enhance cooperation and coordination between the two countries."

Relations between Tokyo and Beijing have experienced ups and downs in recent years, largely due to Japan aligning with the US in countering China’s expanding influence in the Asia-Pacific region.

Speaking about his upcoming meeting with US President-elect Donald Trump, Ishiba said he intends to "pursue cooperation, not confrontation," to strengthen bilateral ties and the Japan-US alliance.