China hopes Japanese leaders would take concrete actions to effectively materialize their commitment so that bilateral relations could return to the normal track, said State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan Wednesday.

Tang told a Japanese delegation on educational and cultural exchanges that China has noticed once again remarks by Japanese leaders on the historical issue, saying that having a correct approach toward history is the foundation of improving Sino-Japanese relations.

The delegation is led by Tajime Masami, president of Teachers' Union of Hyogo Province. Tang expressed his appreciation for the efforts the union has made to improve Sino-Japanese relations.

The Chinese government and people attach great importance to their country's relations with Japan and very much valued the overall situation of the hard-won Sino-Japanese friendship, Tang said, and China's guideline to promote friendship with Japan remains unchanged despite many difficulties involved.

China has made unremitting efforts to improve bilateral relations, Tang said.

(Xinhua News Agency August 25, 2005)