Highlights from Ukraine’s MFA Press Briefing with Japan’s Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya

On Ukraine-Japan bilateral relations

The Foreign Minister of Japan, Takeshi Iwaya, expressed strong support for Ukraine amidst Russia’s war against Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and security in the region. “Japan is committed to supporting Ukraine, not only in terms of humanitarian aid but also in strengthening security cooperation,” he stated.

The Japanese Minister also highlighted the deepening bilateral ties, emphasizing Japan’s role in Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction post-war.

He also acknowledged the unwavering support of the Japanese government and the Japanese people, expressing heartfelt gratitude for over $12 billion in aid to Ukraine since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, and praised the recent decision to allocate an additional $3 billion from frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine.

On Japan’s contribution to Ukraine’s defense and energy sectors

Andrii Sybiha, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, underscored Japan’s readiness to provide further assistance to Ukraine, particularly in defense and energy sectors. “We are working closely with Ukraine to ensure that the country has the resources needed to defend its sovereignty. Japan will continue to provide military equipment, including transport vehicles and power transformers, to aid in Ukraine’s defense efforts,” he remarked.

Foreign Minister also mentioned the ongoing efforts to support Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, noting Japan’s commitment to providing decentralized power generators to mitigate the energy crisis caused by Russian attacks. “As part of our energy support, Japan has already delivered 100 power generators to Ukraine,” Sybiha added.

On security concerns in the region

The Japanese Foreign Minister, Takeshi Iwaya, acknowledged the broader regional implications of Russia’s actions and stressed the importance of international cooperation in addressing security challenges. “The threat posed by Russia’s actions extends beyond Ukraine, affecting the entire global security landscape. Japan and Ukraine share concerns regarding the destabilizing role of Russia in Eastern Europe and beyond,” he stated.

Minister Iwaya also highlighted that Japan would provide intelligence information regarding North Korea’s involvement in the war, particularly in relation to the deployment of North Korean troops by Russia.

On North Korea’s involvement in the war

Andrii Sybiha also commented on the involvement of North Korean troops in the war, labeling it as a dangerous escalation. “The recent deployment of regular North Korean troops by Russia is a clear sign of the intensifying nature of this war,” he noted. He further emphasized that such developments demand increased vigilance from the international community.

On peace talks and Japan’s position

The Foreign Minister of Japan, Takeshi Iwaya, expressed his country’s strong support for a fair and just peace process in Ukraine, reiterating that Japan would continue to assist Ukraine in its efforts to negotiate peace while maintaining its territorial integrity. “Japan is committed to helping Ukraine secure a just peace, one that reflects the principles of international law and the UN Charter,” he concluded.

On Japan’s role in Ukraine’s reconstruction

The Japanese Foreign Minister, Takeshi Iwaya, concluded by reiterating Japan’s commitment to Ukraine’s post-war recovery. He announced plans to host an international conference on mine clearance in Ukraine, scheduled for the fall of next year, and discussed Japan’s role in supporting Ukraine’s economic recovery. “We look forward to working alongside Ukraine in rebuilding its infrastructure and ensuring a prosperous future for its people,” he affirmed.

Earlier, Josep Borrell, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, arrived in Ukraine for his final official visit to reaffirm the European Union’s unwavering support for Ukraine and its people. During his visit, he emphasized the EU’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and security, as well as the importance of continued military, financial, and humanitarian aid.

Borrell also highlighted that Ukraine’s future is tied to the European Union, underscoring the EU’s long-term partnership with Ukraine in its fight for freedom and democracy.