Japan asked to handle row over Diaoyu Islands calmly, sincerely

Beijing on Monday confirmed that diplomatic communication with Tokyo "remains" in the Diaoyu Islands dispute leading up to an ice-thawing trip to Beijing by key members of Japan's Cabinet.

Beijing urged Tokyo to handle the standoff calmly and with sincerity, while observers said it remains to be seen whether the Japanese ruling coalition's key members will bring constructive proposals to China during their visit.