Russian MFA Information and Press Department Commentary Regarding the So Called “Northern Territories Day” in Japan

Moscow has noted the February 7 activities in Japan to mark the so called "Northern Territories Day," in particular, the "national rally" held in Tokyo with the participation of the country's leaders.

Of course, the concept of the "Day," aimed at the reinforcement, including propagandist, of Japan's territorial claims against Russia, does not contribute to the development of good-neighborly partnership relations between our countries.

The well-known position of Russia on a peace treaty with Japan, including the aspect of boundary demarcation consists in that it is necessary to seek a mutually acceptable solution which would be based on an adequate understanding of historical and legal realities and would have the prospect of being approved by the publics and parliaments of Russia and Japan. It is obvious that the search for a solution will be more productive if it is conducted against the background of active joint work to consistently advance Russian-Japanese ties as a whole.

Proceeding from the interests of developing a partner-like relationship with Japan, Russia stands ready to continue an equal and mutually respectful dialogue on the above-mentioned issues.

February 9, 2010