Ahead of the Chinese New Year, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expressed his blessings to overseas Chinese people living in Japan.

He said this year is expected to see great improvements in diplomatic ties, as 2018 marks the 40th anniversary of the China-Japan Treaty of Peace and Friendship. Meanwhile, high-level exchanges are expected to push China-Japan relations to a new high. As for those talks, he expressed hope that a three-nation summit with China, South Korea and Japan will be held as soon as possible. He also welcomed Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to visit Japan this year.

Abe added he would visit China on a suitable occasion, and invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Japan as well.  The Prime Minister said he expects deepened cooperation in economics, culture, sports, and tourism.

Last year Japan received more than 7-million Chinese tourists - for the first time. In addition, two newly-born pandas at Tokyo's Ueno Zoo became big hits with many in Japan.