BEIJING -- A Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Monday that Sino-Japanese relations are at a crucial stage, calling on Japan to make joint efforts with China to bring ties back to the track of sound development.

Spokesperson Hua Chunying made the remarks at a routine press briefing when asked to comment on Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono's China visit.

During Kono's stay in Beijing, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and State Councilor Yang Jiechi met with him, and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with him.

The two sides have reached consensus on improving bilateral ties as they celebrate the 40th anniversary of the signing of the China-Japan Treaty of Peace and Friendship, said Hua.

Since disturbances and obstructions remain in bilateral relations, Hua hoped that Japan could work with China to bring relations back onto the track of sound and normal development.