Russia looking for stronger economic relations with Japan

MOSCOW -- Russian President Vladimir Putin intends to strengthen his nation's relationship with Japan, centering on economic cooperation, as he maintains a good rapport with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the most amicable relationship he has among the Group of Seven leaders, while facing continued confrontation with the United States and Europe.

Putin secured his fourth term in Sunday's presidential election.

However, it is presently difficult to expect Russia to make concessions to Japan on the issue of the northern territories, a focal point between the two nations, as Russia is concerned about the possible deployment of U.S. forces if the territories are returned to Japan.

In a state of the nation address on March 1, Putin referred to Japan only twice. He first mentioned Japan as a country of longevity, and second as a site for the deployment of U.S. missile defenses.

Positioning the Kuril Islands, which include the northern territories, as a strategic point to hold the United States in check, Russia has steadfastly continued a military buildup on locations including Etorofu and Kunashiri islands since 2016.

Putin has expressed concern that if the islands are handed over to Japan, the U.S. military could deploy on them.

Japan hopes for further island talks

The Yomiuri Shimbun

The Japanese government believes that the reelection of Putin as president will give Putin's administration a stable base and create an environment for negotiations on the northern territories.

Prime Minister Abe intends to find a solution to the northern territories issue, based on trust with Putin, with whom Abe has held a total of 20 bilateral meetings.

Abe plans to visit St. Petersburg in May, when Putin starts his fourth administration, and also Vladivostok in September, to hold bilateral meetings.

In the May meeting, Abe aims to reach a concrete agreement regarding five projects, including cultivating marine products, for joint economic activities in the northern territories.

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