Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda arrived in Beijing Sunday for talks with Chinese leaders expected to focus on regional security after the death of North Korean dictator Kim Jong Il.

Before leaving Japan, Mr. Noda told reporters that he would like to work closely with China to ensure that peace and stability on the Korean peninsula will not be negatively impacted.

The talks are likely to include stalled six-party negotiations on ending North Korea's nuclear program.

Mr. Noda meets with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao Sunday, and then with President Hu Jintao Monday before returning home.