Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao addresses the Japanese Parliament Thursday April 12, 2007. It is the first by a Chinese leader in 22 years. (Photo: CCTV.com)

    BEIJING, April 13- Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao addressed the Japanese Parliament Thursday, the first by a Chinese leader in 22 years.

    In his speech on Sino-Japanese friendship and cooperation, Premier Wen says his current visit to Japan is aimed at learning about the latest developments in Japan and contributing to improving and developing bilateral ties. He also made a call to push Sino-Japanese ties to new stage.

    During his speech, Premier Wen Jiabao says he hopes that after Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's ice-breaking visit to China last October, his trip will be ice thawing. The premier's speech carries a theme of advancing Sino-Japanese friendship and cooperation. He says the future of bilateral relations requires upholding the time-honored historical tradition of friendly relations between China and Japan.

    Wen Jiabao said, "Despite the twists and turns that have been experienced in developing Sino-Japanese ties, the foundation of friendship between the two peoples remains as solid as Taishan and Fuji mountains. Realizing a better future for Sino-Japanese relations needs persistent efforts from the governments and peoples of both nations."

    Premier Wen says for China and Japan work to realize its goal of advancing bilateral relations, he suggested following 5 principles.

    First, to build up mutual trust and fulfill pledges and commitments. Second, to bear in mind overall interests and seek common ground while reserving differences. Third, to seek joint development based on equality and mutual benefit. Fourth, to strengthen exchanges with an eye on future. And fifth, to work closely to deal with challenges.

    Premier Wen said, "Our goal is to advance the relationship between China and Japan to a higher level by meeting both historical trends and the will of the people. We also need to realize peaceful co-existence, long-standing friendship, mutually beneficial cooperation and joint development."

    Wen says this year marks the 35th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic ties between China and Japan and their bilateral relationship has advanced. This development has brought tangible benefits to people of both countries.

    Wen Jiabao arrived in Tokyo Wednesday for a 3-day official visit.

    (Source: CCTV.com)