Chinese Premier Li Qiang said he hopes Japan can meet China halfway and keep bilateral relations on the right track, state media reported, as the two countries try to ease escalating tensions in the region.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang urged Japan Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to keep bilateral relations “sound, steady” amid tensions, and for their countries to maintain the stability of global supply chains and free trade.

Japan's new 'military geek' prime minister is looking to strengthen his country's defences and roll out security innovations In his first meeting with the new Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said he hoped that Japan and China could "meet each other half way and keep the relationship on the right track".

Mao Saigo of Japan has shot a 7-under 65 to take a one-shot lead after three rounds of the Buick LPGA Shanghai.

Sei Young Kim of South Korea holds on to her lead with a 2-under 70 in the second round of the Buick LPGA Shanghai tournament