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Japan-Russia Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Miyazaki

July 12, 2000
Ministry of Foreign Affairs

On July 12 Foreign Minister Yohei Kono and Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov held talks in Miyazaki. A summary of their discussions is as follows.

1. Political Dialogue

1. The two Ministers confirmed the basic agreement for President Vladimir Putin to make an official visit to Japan in early September before the start of the United Nations Millennium Summit. A specific schedule would be reconfirmed during talks between the Japanese and Russian leaders in Okinawa.
2. The two Ministers agreed that dialogue between Foreign Ministers should be continued, including at such opportunities as the ASEAN Regional Forum.

2. Japan-Russia Relations

1. A summary of comments by Foreign Minister Kono:

(1) The two sides have a mutual understanding on the strategic importance of the relationship between Japan and Russia.

(2) Japan welcomes the new "Foreign Policy Concept" recently announced by Russia, as it supports the establishment of genuine "good neighbor" relations with Japan and shows the clear commitment to continued efforts to resolve the issue of border demarcation.

(3) Japan see the relationship between Japan and Russia as a "plus-sum game" and is determined to take the relationship forward positively. With regard to the peace treaty issue, Japan wishes to provide ample time during the President's visit to Japan for earnest discussions based on a relationship of trust.

(4) Efforts are being made to ensure the success of the President's visit to Japan, and steady progress is being made toward the preparation of documents that will encapsulate the results of that visit, including a new science and technology cooperation agreement and a new cultural exchange agreement. The idea of holding an intergovernmental meeting on trade and economic affairs is basically a good idea, and the two sides will consult each other on the its timing.

2. A summary of comments by Foreign Minister Ivanov:

(1) Russia is satisfied with the development of the relationship with Japan. Russia also believes that the relationship is strategically important. Russia is fully aware that there are problems that must be resolved; Russia will not close its eyes to these issues and determined to achieve solutions through the development of a comprehensive "good neighbor" relationship.

(2) Russia is also making serious preparations for the President's visit to Japan. Realism and pragmatism are important. Much has already been done, and there is a need to move forward further while maintaining the positive elements that have already been achieved. The President intends to approach the Summit talks in Okinawa and his official visit to Japan based upon this understanding.

(3) The Russian Government recently approved a new economic program. During his visit to Japan, President Putin intends to discuss economic matters as well as political issues, including a peace treaty.

3. Summit-Related Issues

There was an exchange of views on the preparations for the Summit, with particular emphasis on the preparation of documents. Foreign Minister Kono expressed his appreciation for Russia's cooperation in this process. He also stated that he looked forward to continuing close exchanges of views with Russia on the Korean Peninsula.