Li Guangzhe (R), a Chinese student who is also head of the Chinese students' association in Japan, presents to Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda an album commemorating the 110th anniversary of Chinese students studying in Japan in Tokyo, May 1, 2008. Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda met on Thursday with 10 representatives of Chinese students studying in Japan, delivering friendly messages before the upcoming visit of Chinese President Hu Jintao to Japan. (Xinhua Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    TOKYO, May 1 (Xinhua) -- Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda met on Thursday with 10 representatives of Chinese students studying in Japan, delivering friendly messages before the upcoming visit of Chinese President Hu Jintao to Japan.

    "We warmly welcome President Hu to Japan," said Fukuda in the talks with the Chinese students at his residence.

    He said that despite some problems in bilateral ties, he hoped that the Chinese students will, under whatever circumstances, recognize the importance of Japan-China relations and strive for their development.

    China is a major power in the world, and the performance of a major power has direct bearing on world stability, said the Japanese prime minister, adding that Japan hopes to foster a relationship with China that helps make joint efforts for world stability.

    Enquiring about their campus life from time to time, Fukuda encouraged the Chinese students to work hard and make due contributions to the Japan-China friendly relations.

    The Japanese government and universities provide Chinese students with very favorable conditions for their study, said Li Guangzhe, a Chinese student who is also head of the Chinese students' association in Japan.

    Li said that the Chinese students are determined to play a positive role in promoting China-Japan friendship while studying in Japan.

    Chinese President Hu Jintao is scheduled to pay a state visit to Japan from May 6 to 10.