Hu Jintao, the Chinese President, has begun his highly anticipated Japan visit in Tokyo today. "Relations between the two countries now have new opportunities for further development. I hope through this visit to increase mutual trust and strengthen friendship," he was quoted saying by Reuters.

The visit has stirred up different groups of activists, who started about two days ago their “Human rights for Tibet” protests.

The talks between the officials are expected to involve border disputes, climate change, contested gas fields, historical animosity and the recent Tibet issue. President Hu will be accompanied today by Yasuo Fukuda, the Japanese prime minister.

The busy schedule prepared for President Hu over his 5-day visit will include tomorrow a meeting with Emperor Akihito, an appearance in a summit meeting, some talks with business leaders and also discussions with the representatives of Japan’s main political parties.

"I hope to have candid talks on how Japan and China can co-operate in a wide range of fields, which are not limited to bilateral relations but also include the peace and security of this region," Mr. Fukuda said a few days ago, according to BBC News.

President Hu promised, as a symbol of friendship, to help with the search of a replacement for Tokyo zoo’s popular panda Ling Ling, who died last week due to heart failure.

The visit is also expected to further help the already blossoming economic ties and also boost cooperation on security issues.

President Hu Jintao is the highest-ranking Chinese official to visit Japan in over a decade.