The Japanese Prime Minister visits Ukraine

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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida made a surprise visit to Ukraine. Kishida arrived in the capital Kyiv on Tuesday for talks with Volodymyr Zelensky, Japan’s Kyodo news agency reported.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tokyo had previously confirmed the travel plans. The head of government wanted to convey the “solidarity and unwavering support” of Tokyo and the G7, a group of economically strong democracies, to the country invaded by Russia.

Japan currently chairs the G7, which also includes Germany, the US, France, the UK, Italy and Canada. The next G7 summit will take place in May in Hiroshima, Japan.

Maintain international order

During the meeting with Zelensky, according to the Foreign Ministry, Kishida wanted to strongly condemn “Russia’s aggression” against Ukraine and the unilateral change in the status quo. He will express his determination to maintain international order based on the rule of law.

There, Kishida wanted to pay his respects “for the courage and perseverance” of the Ukrainian people. Kishida is the first Japanese leader to travel to a war zone since World War II.

Japan, in line with the West, has imposed sanctions on Russia and supports Ukraine. However, the pacifist constitution does not allow Japan to supply arms to Ukraine.

Travel plans kept secret

Kishida continued to Ukraine after visiting India. According to Kyodo, the onward journey was initially kept secret. It is rare for a Japanese government leader to make an unannounced trip to another country.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tokyo, Kishida is also expected in Poland on Wednesday. In addition to bilateral relations, Poland will also deal with the joint response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. (SDA)

Source: Blick