PM Takaichi vows to resolve Japan-Russia territorial dispute

Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi reaffirmed her government’s commitment to resolving the longstanding territorial dispute with Russia and signing a formal peace treaty, despite current strains in bilateral relations.

Speaking in a keynote address to the Japanese parliament marking her inauguration, Takaichi said: “Although our relations with Russia are in a difficult state, the government’s position remains unchanged: to resolve the territorial dispute and conclude a peace treaty.”

She also criticised Moscow’s actions in Ukraine, underscoring the urgent need for the conflict to end, Russian media reports.

In March 2022, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced it would halt negotiations with Tokyo over a peace treaty, citing Japan’s unilateral sanctions in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Moscow also suspended talks on joint economic activities on the southern Kuril Islands.

Turning to other foreign policy priorities, Takaichi stressed that deepening relations with the United States remains central to Japan’s diplomatic and security strategy.

“The Japan-US alliance is the foundation of our foreign and defence policy. We will continue to deepen trust with President Donald Trump and develop bilateral relations across security, economic, cultural, and other areas,” she said.

The Prime Minister also confirmed plans to visit Washington next month on an official state visit and pledged cooperation with the US on regional issues.

By Aghakazim Guliyev