WASHINGTON, March 26 -- The United States on Thursday emphasized that Japan should approach history issues "in a way that promotes healing and reconciliation."

At a press briefing, State Department spokesman Jeff Rathke said the U.S. welcomed a Feb. 12 speech by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, saying that he delivered "a very positive message about history issues."

U.S. House Speaker John Boehner announced Thursday that he has invited Abe to address a joint meeting of Congress next month.

"His address will provide an opportunity for the American people to hear from one of our closest allies about ways we can expand our cooperation on economic and security priorities," Boehner said in a statement.

Rathke declined to comment on Abe's upcoming speech, saying that "we'll let Prime Minister Abe speak for himself."

Abe's address to a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives, slated for April 29, would be the first ever for a Japanese leader.

The White House announced Monday U.S. President Barack Obama will host Abe for an official visit to the White House on April 28.