The relationship between Russia and Japan is abnormal, due to the fact that despite 70 years having passed since the end of the Second World War, a peace treaty has not been signed, according to Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono.
“The Japan-Russia relations have unlimited potential … If these hidden forces are released, Japan and Russia will establish truly strategic relations, it will benefit not only the Asia-Pacific region, but the entire international community in general,” Kono said.
The Minister called on the people of both countries to resolve the peace treaty issue and cooperate so that their “dreams will flourish.”
He noted that in this regard, the projects of joint economic activities on the four disputed Kuril Islands — Iturup, Kunashir, Shikotan and Habomai – were of particular importance.
“The fact that the Japanese and Russian people picture the future of the four islands together is contributing to the strengthening of mutual understanding and trust. I am determined that this will become a large contribution to signing the peace treaty. I would like to find a breakthrough solution to the peace treaty issue within the framework of the ‘new approach,’ which expresses future-oriented ideas,” Kono stressed.