Japan should lift sanctions before sending delegation to Russia — lawmaker

TOKYO, April 3. /TASS/. The Japanese government should lift economic sanctions against Russia before sending a delegation to the country, member of the upper house of Japan’s parliament from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Muneo Suzuki told TASS, commenting on a Kyodo report about Tokyo’s plans to send an economic delegation to Russia in May. "There is no specific plan to send an economic delegation. However, if the issue of Ukraine moves toward a ceasefire, of course, this could be considered," he said. "But I believe that before sending an economic delegation, economic sanctions should first be lifted," the lawmaker added, stressing that otherwise Tokyo would not be able to gain understanding from Russia. Earlier, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, responding to a question from a TASS correspondent, denied reports that the government planned to send a delegation to Russia in May and was inviting top executives of major companies, including Mitsubishi, Mitsui and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, to participate. The dispatch of the delegation is being considered in view of the possibility that Japanese businesses may resume their operations in Russia after the end of the conflict in Ukraine. According to Kyodo, the issue of purchasing Russian oil could be raised during the visit if it takes place. Speaking about relations between the two countries, Motegi noted that Tokyo would proceed from its national interests and reiterated its position on Ukraine. In conclusion, he thanked TASS for the question and said "thank you" in Russian. Kyodo’s report was also denied by a number of Japanese companies mentioned in it in response to a TASS inquiry.