PM to visit Japan in 2006

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is expected to pay a visit to Japan later in 2006 as part of the decision of the two countries to enhance high-level trips.

"In response to an invitation from Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, the prime minister is expected to visit Japan at an early, mutually-convenient date," said a joint press release issued in Delhi after talks between Minister of State for External Affairs E Ahamed and Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Aso.

During the talks Aso said Japan looked forward to welcome Dr Singh, external affairs ministry spokesman Navtej Sarna said.

The visit will be preceded by a trip by Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee, expectedly in two months.

The statement said the regular ministerial-level exchanges, including between foreign, defence, finance, trade and ICT ministers, will continue.