Japan-Ukraine Relations
Japan-Ukraine Foreign Ministers' Meeting
April 2, 2022
On April 2, commencing at 11:55 a.m. (local time; same day, 6:55 p.m. JST) for approximately one hour, Mr. HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who is visiting Poland as a Special Envoy of the Prime Minister, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Dmytro KULEBA, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, who is visiting Poland at the same time. An overview of the meeting is as follows.
- At the outset, Minister Hayashi stated that he was delighted to have this face-to-face meeting. He conveyed that Japan stood in solidarity with the Ukrainian government and the people. He stated that he was visiting Poland as a Special Envoy of the Prime Minister to confirm the actual status of Ukrainian refugees and to understand their needs and issues so that Japan can provide more detailed support. In response, Minister Kuleba expressed his delight and deep gratitude for this chance meeting in Warsaw, stating that this visit by Minister Hayashi would encourage the Ukrainian people.
- Regarding the situation in Ukraine, Minister Hayashi reiterated Japan's position regarding Russia's aggression against Ukraine. He stated that the international community must act in a united, resolute fashion to protect the very foundations of the international order, and must show that these outrageous actions will come with a high price. From this viewpoint, Japan has been working closely with the international community (including the G7) to implement strict sanctions across a number of fields. In response, Minister Kuleba expressed his appreciation and gratitude for the swift and strong sanctions imposed by the Government of Japan. In addition, Minister Kuleba gave a detailed explanation of the current situation.
- Minister Hayashi stated that Japan would support the Ukrainian people, who are struggling to protect their country. He conveyed that Japan is advancing support such as humanitarian assistance. He also stated that Japan is accepting Ukrainian refugees in difficulty. In response, Minister Kuleba expressed his deep gratitude for Japan's response and cooperation.
- Finally, Minister Hayashi introduced a decision by the Government of Japan: the Japanese name for the capital of Ukraine "Kiev" has been changed to “Kyiv” based on the Ukrainian language to demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine. The names of other locations have also been changed based on the Ukrainian language. In response, Minister Kuleba stated that he welcomed Japan's decision.
- The two Ministers agreed to continue to work closely together.