Key facts
- Japan's diplomatic and energy engagement with Russia may cause concern among G7 allies.
- Japanese officials visited Moscow in May, with business representatives present.
- Tokyo seeks to continue importing crude oil and LNG from Russia's Sakhalin 2 project.
- A Japanese politician is reportedly arranging a meeting between the foreign ministers of Japan and Russia.
- Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is expected to address these issues at the upcoming G7 meeting in France.
As Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi prepares to attend the G7 meeting in France, Japan's approach to Russia is likely to be a point of discussion. While European Union and NATO nations maintain a united front against Russia's aggression in Ukraine, Japan has pursued a different strategy, including diplomatic outreach and continued energy imports.
Senior officials from Japan's foreign and trade ministries visited Moscow in May for a two-day meeting with their Russian counterparts. Representatives from the Japan Business Federation were also present, though five major Japanese business conglomerates were invited but did not join the mission. Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi defended the engagement, stating the importance of maintaining contact even during conflict.