Akitaka Saiki made the comment on Tuesday after wrapping up a 2-day visit to Beijing. He met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Vice Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin.
Saiki told reporters that both sides exchanged candid and earnest opinions on the current state of the bilateral relationship.
He added that they acknowledged the need to continue dialogue.
But he didn't comment on whether he could pave the way for a summit meeting proposed by Japan. He only said he will report to the prime minister and the foreign minister.
China's foreign ministry said on Tuesday that the Chinese side clearly explained its stance on the issues facing the 2 countries.
China apparently conveyed its position that Japan should correct its attitude on the Japanese-controlled Senkaku Islands and other issues. The islands in the East China Sea are claimed by China and Taiwan.

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​This news was published on July 30, 2013.

Source: http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/english/news/20130730_39.html

Source of picture: http://www.japancrush.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/japan-china-relations-korean-men-02.png