Japan-Russia Relations
Japan-Russia Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
September 23, 2021
On September 23, commencing at noon local time (September 24, 1:00 a.m. Japan Time) for 30 minutes, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who is visiting New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly, held a Japan-Russia Foreign Ministers’ Meeting with H.E. Mr. Lavrov, Sergey Viktorovich, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation. The overview of the meeting is as follows.
- The two ministers discussed Japan-Russia bilateral relations, such as the issue of concluding a peace treaty, joint economic activities on the Four Northern Islands, the Four-Island Exchange Program and other programs, the economy, people-to-people exchanges, and security, as well as international situations.
- Regarding bilateral relations, Minister Motegi stated that he intended to promote overall Japan-Russia relations in a broad range of fields, including the issue of concluding a peace treaty in a mutually beneficial manner. The two Ministers shared the view that Japan and Russia will continue discussions at various opportunities in order to develop the overall relationship between Japan and Russia.
- Regarding international situations, Minister Motegi stated that Japan lodged a strong protest against North Korea over the recent launches of the ballistic missiles which are in violation of the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, and that North Korea’s recent nuclear and missile activities pose a threat to the peace and security of Japan, the region, and the international community. Minister Motegi asked for Minister Lavrov’s understanding and cooperation for the immediate resolution of the abductions issue and once again received support from Minister Lavrov.
- In addition, the two Ministers exchanged views regarding the situation in Afghanistan and concurred to work together toward achieving stability in the country.