Improving China-Japan relations main aim for Li Keqiang, Shinzo Abe at Manila talks
Pair are expected to build on progress made at Apec summit in Vietnam, with possible focus on boosting economic ties
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang are set to further commit their countries to improving relations in their talks in Manila on Monday.
Their meeting comes on the heels of talks between Abe and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in Vietnam on Saturday, where the leaders agreed to make a “new start” on bilateral ties that have often been strained by territorial and historical grievances.
Abe’s unprecedented meeting with both Xi and Li in such a short period of time is a sign of improving relations.
In their third sit-down talks since Li became premier in 2013, he and Abe are expected to build on the progress made at the Vietnam meeting, possibly with an extra focus on economic ties given Li’s role in China.
They may be able to reach little common ground on regional issues, however, with Japan urging all countries to maximise pressure on North Korea to abandon its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes while China is advocating dialogue with Pyongyang.
Abe is likely to again invite Li to make his first visit to Japan as premier for a trilateral summit with South Korean President Moon Jae In by the end of the year.