New Japanese ambassador hopes for closer ties

The new Japanese ambassador to China has expressed his new year wish for closer Sino-Japanese ties, especially between the younger generations. Sino-Japanese relations nosedived in September of last year after the Japanese government's purchase of the disputed Diaoyu Islands.

At his first public event, the newly appointed Japanese ambassador, Masato Kitera, said his priority was to improve relations between China and Japan.

At a youth event held at the Japanese Embassy in Beijing, Kitera expressed his hope of restimulating non-governmental communications. He said the younger generation is the future of both countries, and boosting youth communications between the two sides is a vital part of developing stronger ties.

Masato Kitera, Japanese Ambassador to China, said, "Sino-Japanese relations are witnessing tough times. I hope the younger generations from both countries can deepen communications and develop a closer understanding of each other. I hope we can improve Sino-Japanese relations together."