Japan and Russia agreed to pursue joint economic activities on the disputed Kuril Islands
During two days of talks, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzō Abe and Russian President Vladimir Putin failed to settle the long territorial dispute over the Kuril Islands, which were ceded to the Soviet Union after World War II. The parties, however, agreed to continue the dialogue and carry out joint economic activities on the disputed islands, Japanese media reported on Friday, December 16th, following the talks.
During the talks, Putin and Abe negotiated easing travel restrictions between the two countries. From now on, Russians who are funding their own trip to Japan won’t need letters from Japanese guarantors. Also, the validity of multiple-entry visas for business, cultural and scientific visits will be increased from 3 to 5 years, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan reported.
During Putin's visit to Japan, the two sides also signed economic agreements, aimed at building trust between the two countries. According to Interfax, an unprecedented number - more than 80 - intergovernmental, interdepartmental and corporate agreements on cooperation were signed.