The meeting will take place during Obama's first visit to Japan as U.S. president Nov. 12-13 amid growing tension between the two countries especially over the realignment of U.S. forces in Japan.

Asked about the schedule of the summit meeting, the official said, "Things are moving toward that direction."

The two are likely to discuss issues concerning the bilateral alliance as well as the situation in Afghanistan, where Japan hopes to focus on enhancing civilian aid as an effective alternative to its refueling mission in support of U.S.-led antiterrorism operations in the Indian Ocean following its expiration in January.