TOKYO -- Yoshihide Suga, the right-hand man to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, says 2018 provides an "excellent" opportunity to improve Sino-Japan relations and that Japan is ready to cooperate in China's Belt and Road Initiative if it contributes to global peace and prosperity. The chief cabinet secretary made the comments during a wide-ranging interview with The Nikkei.

Looking ahead 2018
Japan serious about improving China relations: Chief Secretary Suga
Pledges a higher consumption tax rate and lower social security spending