Japanese officials expect push to boost political, military and cultural ties with China
The election yesterday of Yasuo Fukuda to replace Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is expected to have a swift impact on Japan's relations with China, North Korea and the rest of the region.
Mr Fukuda is keen to make deeper and stronger ties with Japan's neighbours - particularly China - the core of his leadership, which is expected to be confirmed in the Japanese parliament tomorrow.
Japanese officials are anticipating a fresh push to boost diplomatic, military and cultural ties with China, extending groundwork laid by Mr Abe in restoring ties with Beijing.
'We expect the push will come from Mr Fukuda in terms of engagement,' said one Japanese official.
'It is going to be a question of how to deepen the meaningful dialogue with China at all levels, while still expressing concerns when we need to.'