Chinese premier kicks off "ice-thawing" visit to Japan

During his stay, Wen is expected to hold talks with Abe and deliver a speech in the Japanese Diet (or parliament), the first by a Chinese leader in 22 years.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao waves while arriving in Tokyo, capital of Japan, April 11, 2007. Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao arrived here Wednesday for a three-day official visit. (Xinhua Photo/Rao Aimin)

In the 35 years since they normalized relations, China and Japan have witnessed a steady growth of bilateral exchanges. The two countries also disagree over historical issues and dispute over natural gas fields in the East China Sea.

Editor:Du Xiaodan