Belarus summons Japanese ambassador over espionage case

The Japanese Ambassador was summoned to the Belarusian Foreign Ministry on September 6 in response to espionage activities by a Japanese national, according to Anatoly Glaz, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry.

Glaz stated that Ambassador Hiroyuki Yamamoto was called in to address concerns over the recent detention of a Japanese citizen involved in espionage that compromised Belarus's security, Caliber.Az reports citing Belarus media.

The investigation into the case is nearing completion, and the responsible individual will face legal consequences according to Belarusian law.

Glaz also responded to Japanese demands for the crime to be kept out of the public eye and not covered by the media, dismissing these requests as unworthy of consideration.

He noted that the demand for secrecy was especially ironic given the public nature of the crime’s exposure through a film detailing the Japanese citizen's criminal acts. Glaz assured that all investigative procedures adhered strictly to Belarusian and international legal standards, and that consular access and favorable detention conditions were provided to the detainee, who has been cooperative with the investigation and engaged with the media.

The Foreign Ministry reiterated its willingness to continue discussions with Japan on this matter, while emphasizing the unacceptable nature of any actions by foreign intelligence services that undermine Belarus's sovereignty.