Tokyo to maintain sanctions on Russia but seeks dialogue with Moscow

Lead

Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi has confirmed that Tokyo intends to maintain its sanctions policy toward Russia while continuing to pursue dialogue with Moscow as a neighboring country. His remarks came after a brief encounter with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of ASEAN meetings in Manila — their first personal exchange in six years, according to a Japanese lawmaker.

Coverage Comparison

Reports from TASS, the Russian state news agency, describe the meeting as a diplomatic milestone and a rekindling of an "old acquaintance" between the two ministers. Coverage highlights both Japan's commitment to the sanctions regime aligned with the G7 approach and its desire to keep communication channels open despite the complex relationship.

Key Claims

Motegi and Lavrov met in Manila, marking the first personal exchange between the Japanese and Russian foreign ministers in six years, as noted by Muneo Suzuki, a lawmaker from Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). The two discussed bilateral relations and regional issues, with Motegi describing the interaction as a brief exchange of greetings during a gala dinner.

Motegi emphasized the importance of managing Japan-Russia relations thoughtfully, stating, "Although the relations are complex, Russia is our neighbor. It's crucial to maintain proper bilateral communication - including intergovernmental channels, as well as cultural and people-to-people exchanges." He added that Japan's approach toward Russia will be guided by national interests.

At a news conference in Tokyo, Motegi said, "There has been no change in our sanctions policy toward Russia, which is being implemented in line with the common G7 approach. At the same time, it is important to properly manage our relations with Russia as a neighboring country, and an exchange of views between our governments is necessary. This remains our consistent position based on our national interests."

The Japanese foreign minister also reiterated Tokyo's claims to the southern Kuril Islands — referred to in Japan as the Northern Territories — and stressed the importance of resolving fisheries-related issues between the two countries. He also confirmed Japan's intention to resume short-term internships for Japanese students in Russia starting in August.

Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko has criticized Japan's stance on sanctions, according to the reports, though the details of his criticism were not elaborated in the available coverage.

Suzuki welcomed the ministerial exchange, stating, "The very fact of dialogue between foreign ministers is a positive step," and expressed hope that this could lead to improvements in bilateral ties.

Reports also note that many in Japan have highlighted the close personal relationship Motegi has cultivated with Lavrov. Motegi himself has spoken of a "trusting relationship," recalling several discussions — including informal talks — with Lavrov. During a speech at the National Rally for the Return of the Northern Territories in April, Motegi referenced "lengthy negotiations" with Lavrov on February 7. In January, Suzuki told a TASS correspondent that he had met with Motegi before one of his trips to Russia and noted that the Japanese foreign minister values his good rapport with Lavrov.