JAPANESE Prime Minister Naoto Kan has insisted he is not concerned about Australia's decision to challenge his nation's annual Southern Ocean whale hunt in the International Court of Justice.   

Speaking after meeting Julia Gillard in Tokyo tonight, Mr Kan said there was a firm and longstanding friendship between the two nations which would not be diluted by the dispute over whaling, which is pending before the court.

"Our relationship with Australia at the grass-roots level, I think ... Australia is one of the most friendly countries in the world," Mr Kan said through an interpreter.

"We agree on most issues.

"Because of this issue the entire bilateral relationship should not be eroded.

"We have to discuss our thoughts frankly but it's shouldn't be an impediment to our relationship."

Since Labor took office in 2007 it has pressed Japan to stop its annual hunt, which is made under the pretext of scientific research. The Japanese fleet ended this year's hunt prematurely after protests by the Sea Shepherd organisation.   


Despite the dispute, Mr Kan explained he had fond memories of having visited Uluru 30 years ago and being impressed by Australia's size.

He described Australians as friendly, brave and bold.

The two leaders spoke to reporters after a 20-minute meeting ahead of a working dinner at Mr Kan's official residence.

The Japanese leader thanked Australia for its relief efforts and aid in response to March 11's Sendai earthquake.

Ms Gillard presented him with the helmet of firefighter Rob McNeil, who was in charge of a group of Australian search and rescue experts sent to Japan after the tragedy.

They then discussed co-operation for a regional approach to natural disaster response, security and the need to resume talks on the creation of a free-trade agreement.

Ms Gillard said it was clear and understandable that the Japanese authorities were too focused on earthquake relief to be concerned with the FTA.

But she said Mr Kan had pledged to continue the FTA talks as soon as possible.

The Japanese PM has more to be concerned with right now!
Whaling is not at the top of his to do list, nor should it be!