Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi have held online talks to discuss the situation in Ukraine and the relationship between their two countries.

During the talks on Wednesday, Hayashi pointed out that Russia's invasion of Ukraine is a clear violation of international law. He called on China to play a responsible role for the peace and stability of the international community.

Hayashi also called for cooperation to build constructive and stable bilateral relations, as this year marks the 50th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Hayashi expressed concern again about Beijing's increasing maritime activities in the South and East China seas.

This is the first talks between the ministers since their telephone conversation last November.