Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on Tuesday had a telephone conversation with his new Japanese counterpart Yoshihiko Noda to discuss bilateral relations.

Extending congratulations to Noda for his new post as Japan's head of government, Wen said that as water-linked close neighbors, China and Japan have common interests in a broad range of areas.

Promoting the long-term stable and sound development of bilateral relations is conducive to the welfare of both peoples as well as to the peace and prosperity of Asia and the world at large, Wen said.

The Chinese government stands ready to work with Japan's new cabinet to adhere to the principles of the four political documents between the two countries, keep high-level contacts, expand exchanges and cooperation in various areas and promote coordination in regional and international affairs, he said.

The year of 2012 marks the 40th anniversary of the normalization of China-Japan diplomatic relations.

The two sides need to take the opportunity of the anniversary to further advance their strategic and mutually beneficial relations, the Chinese premier said.

Wen also wished the people in Japan's quake and tsunami-hit areas success in their reconstruction drive and a peaceful life at an early date.

Noda, for his part, said that the new Japanese cabinet regards the Japan-China relationship as one of the country's most important bilateral relations.

Japan is willing to work with China to advance high-level contacts, boost cooperation in areas such as post-disaster reconstruction and tourism and promote exchanges between the youths of the two nations, he said.

Noda, the former finance minister, last week was elected leader of the ruling Democratic Party of Japan and as new prime minister to succeed Naoto Kan.

(Xinhua News Agency September 6, 2011)