China hopes to strengthen exchanges with Japan's Kansai

China's top political advisor Jia Qinglin said Saturday that China hopes to strengthen exchanges with the Kansai area of Japan.

Jia, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), made the remarks at separate meetings with Osaka Prefecture Governor Fusae Ota, Osaka City Mayor Junichi Seki, Hyogo Prefecture Governor Toshizo Ido andKobe City Mayor Yada Tatsuo.

Jia said China will enhance cooperation with the area in such fields as energy-saving, environmental protection, high-tech, disaster prevention, and small- and medium-sized enterprises.

The Japanese local leaders expressed their willingness to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with the Chinese side.

Jia started an official goodwill visit to Japan Wednesday as guest of the Japanese government.

Source: Xinhua