A warship operated by the Japanese Navy is expected to arrive in China in coming days in the first visit of its kind for over sixty years.

Chinese/ Japanese Relations

The visit marks the most recent example of measures designed to improve Chinese/ Japanese relations - relations which, historically, were frail for much of the past century, especially as a result of Japan's invasion of China.

"China is an important neighbour, and improving defense and other ties will be beneficial not only for us but for peace and stability in the region", a spokeswoman for the Japanese defence minister, Shigeru Ishiba, said that he had told the press.

Sichuan Earthquake Flights

While both the Chinese and Japanese governments are keen to be viewed as having a new, mutual spirit of collaboration and unity between them, civilians in both countries continue to harbour fears. A planned Japanese aid flight into China to deliver supplies to victims of the Sichuan earthquake was shelved after concerns emerged from within China's civilian population.

Tibet Protests

Meanwhile, during the visit of Chinese President Hu Jintao to Japan in May, protests against China's treatment of Tibet took place.

Sazanami

The Japanese Naval vessel set to visit Japan is the Sazanami. According to the ministry spokeswoman, it will be in China between the 24^th and 28^th June.

While in China, the Sazanami's crew will participate in events designed to promote bilateral friendship, such as a concert in which musicians from both countries will be playing, according to Kyodo news agency.

The visit comes after that of a Chinese warship, which docked in Japan towards the end of last year.

Source - Armed Forces International's Far East Correspondent

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