Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on Sunday called for broader cooperation with Japan, as a Japanese trade delegation is currently visiting China.

"The two sides should grasp the opportunity provided by China's developmental transformation and Japan's reconstruction (following the earthquake and tsunami disasters in March) and actively expand our cooperation," Wen said during a meeting with a delegation from the Japanese Association for the Promotion of International Trade.

He added that the two countries are enjoying increasing trade cooperation, cultural and personnel exchanges, which have been hard-earned and should be cherished.

Kono Yohei, chairman of the association, said China's fast economic growth has provided important opportunities for Japan. He said that he hopes the two sides will increase cooperation in trade and investment.

Wen also recalled his visit to Japan in May this year. Wen travelled to the cities of Natori and Fukushima, both of which were hit hard by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, to show China's support for post-quake reconstruction in Japan.

The Japanese people have been "deeply encouraged" by the strong support given by China's leaders and people, said Kono.

(Xinhua News Agency July 24, 2011)