Russia's reaction to the hostile steps of the Japanese government will be sharp. This was stated in an interview with TASS by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Andrei Rudenko.
"Unfortunately, the reaction of the Japanese government in the person of the Minister of Foreign Affairs to the words of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin at the meeting of the Valdai Club once again showed the lack of intention on the part of Japan to change anything in a positive direction”, he pointed out.
„In such conditions, we will be forced to continue reacting sharply to anti-Russian steps, guided only by our own national interests.“
On November 7, the head of the Japanese Foreign Ministry, Takeshi Iwaya, noted that Tokyo considered “somewhat positive“ the statements of the President of the Russian Federation about readiness to build bilateral relations, but intends to adhere to the sanctions against Moscow.
Rudenko noted that the Russian side always remains ready to normalize relations and resume mutually beneficial cooperation. “But this requires a real rejection of the hostile policy of official Tokyo, supported by practical steps“, added the deputy minister.
Earlier, TV channel NHK reported, citing sources, that Tokyo plans to tighten sanctions against the Russian Federation and North Korea, as it believes the interaction between Moscow and Pyongyang affects security in Europe and Asia and "violates international law".
To date, Japan has already implemented restrictive measures, including restrictions on exports and imports, as well as asset freezes on individuals and organizations. Additional sanctions, the channel noted, could include freezing assets. Tokyo intends to coordinate its actions with other countries, including members of the G-7.