Japan's Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa has urged China to make a decision that it will not change the international order by force or coercion.

Hayashi gave a speech on Wednesday at Chatham House -- the Royal Institute of International Affairs -- in London. The foreign minister is on a five-day visit to London and Paris.

Hayashi said, "China needs to make a strategic decision that it will abide by the established international rules and that it cannot or will not change the international order in ways that are contrary to these rules by force or coercion."

The foreign minister also acknowledged the need to cooperate with China in resolving the common challenges that international society is facing.

He said Japan will work to build a constructive and stable relationship with China.

Hayashi noted that the Indo-Pacific region has great potential in terms of economic growth and innovation. He went on to say that the region is important for the stability and prosperity of the entire international community.

In March, the British government released a review of its foreign and security policies. It says the UK will prioritize the Indo-Pacific region as "a permanent pillar" of its international policy.

Hayashi praised the British government for its strategic and geopolitical viewpoints and said Japan will strengthen cooperation with Britain in the security field.