Mori Calls for Chinese Premier's Early Visit

Yoshiro Mori, secretary general of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Tuesday called for an early visit to Japan by Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji and promised to respect China's "One-China" policy on Taiwan.

Mori, who is expected to succeed ailing Japanese Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi Wednesday, made the call in a meeting with Zeng Qinghong, head of the Organization Department of the Chinese Communist Party.

Regarding the Taiwan issue, Mori told Zeng that "the basis is the (1972) Japan-China joint communique," which recognizes Beijing as the sole legitimate government of China.

During the meeting, Mori and Zeng also agreed on the need for the two countries to "build a future-oriented relationship."

Zeng, who arrived in Tokyo earlier Tuesday for a five-day visit, later held a working dinner with Japanese Foreign Minster Yohei Kono and conveyed the wishes of Chinese leaders for Obuchi's recovery.

Obuchi remains comatose in hospital after suffering a stroke Sunday.

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