China sea. And Business Owners in a city on the japan sea coast are hoping the launch of a new high speed train line linking them to tokyo will bring them new opportunities. Prime minister shinzo abe is meeting with german chancellor Angela Merkel to discuss issues of mutual concern. This is the first time in seven years that merkel has visited japan. Japanese government sources say abe wants to confirm the two countries will continue to play an active role in contributing to global peace and stability. They say abe use merkels efforts to force dialogue resolving the conflict in eastern ukraine. Scattered fighting between prorussian separatists and Government Forces continues in the region despite a ceasefire that has been in place since midfebruary. Abe wants to promote talks with germany in dealing with russia and extending support for ukraine. Hes likely to suggest that pressure on russia is necessary, and that sanctions alone arent enough. Also expected to be on the agenda is china