Japan welcomes Australia's assurances over whaling

Updated June 12, 2008 22:46:21

Australian PM Kevin Rudd has invited his Japanese counterpart Yasuo Fukuda, pictured to visit Australia. [Reuters]

Japan has welcomed assurances from the Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd that Australia wants to resolve a dispute over whaling diplomatically.

Kevin Rudd met with his Japanese counterpart, Yasuo Fukuda for three quarters of an hour on Thursday.

They discussed security ties, climate change policy and negotiations on a free trade agreement.

On the difficult issue of whaling Mr Fukuda says both countries have agreed to not let the disagreement undermine their relationship.

Speaking after the meeting, Mr Rudd said Australia's policy hasn't changed.

But he says for the time being, the government wants to use diplomacy to try to resolve the standoff.

Japan supports idea of an international commission on nuclear disarmament

Mr Rudd has also welcomed support from Japan for his proposed international commission on nuclear disarmament.

Kevin Rudd has announced the setting up of a new international commission on nuclear disarmament to be co chaired by the former Foreign Minister Gareth Evans.

He has discussed the proposal with Yasuo Fukuda.

Mr Fukuda welcomed the idea and says his government will continue talking to Australia about the role it would play in the body.

Mr Rudd is on his way to Jakarta on Thursday for his first state visit to Indonesia.