Tokyo- Chinese State Councillor Yang Jiechi underlined Tuesday the need for diplomatic negotiations with North Korea after Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida urged Beijing to put more pressure on Pyongyang.

Meanwhile, Kishida and Yang agreed in their meeting in Tokyo that their countries will work closely in dealing with North Korea's nuclear and missile development.

"It is important to strengthen pressure on North Korea for now," Kishida said. "China's role is crucial."

But Yang claimed his country calls for a political solution through peaceful negotiations, the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, and regional peace and stability. He also said China's stance is clear and consistent.

On the bilateral front, Kishida and Yang agreed to make efforts to improve their countries' relationship by addressing pending bilateral issues appropriately.

They also discussed a plan to hold a meeting between Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of a summit of the Group of 20 advanced and emerging economies to be held in Germany in July.

Also discussed were plans to hold a trilateral summit among Japan, China and South Korea at an early date in Japan and realize mutual visits by Abe and Xi.

Yang said China hopes that its relationship with Japan will be constantly improved and developed through efforts by both sides.

Kishida sought Chinese cooperation over six Japanese men detained in China since March. (Jiji Press)