In a demonstration of unwavering commitment, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida affirmed his nation’s enduring involvement in the reconstruction efforts of Ukraine, deeming it a forward-looking investment. This proclamation comes as Japan underscores its dedication to aiding the war-ravaged country, coinciding with the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion.
Addressing a conference jointly organized by Japan, the Ukrainian government, and business entities, Kishida emphasized Japan’s desire for a prolonged public-private collaboration rooted in inclusivity, humanitarianism, and advancements in technology and knowledge. Over 50 collaboration agreements were formalized between Japanese entities and their Ukrainian counterparts.
In his articulate discourse, Kishida acknowledged the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its challenging nature. However, he asserted that fostering economic reconstruction is not solely an investment in Ukraine’s future but also a strategic investment for Japan and the global community at large.
With the hope that the conference would galvanize international backing for Ukraine amid the prolonged conflict and shifting global attention to other crisis zones, Kishida stressed the pivotal role of investment across diverse industries. He underscored the need to tailor support to Ukraine’s specific requirements.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, leading a delegation of over 100 individuals, expressed gratitude to Kishida, characterizing the meeting as a fresh beginning for cooperation between the two nations. Shmyhal emphasized that Ukraine is not merely reconstructing; it is shaping new paradigms and approaches in the process. He drew attention to Ukraine as a focal point, scrutinized by both dictators and potential invaders, monitoring Russia’s transgressions of international law and anticipating the world’s response.
Expected to draw approximately 300 participants and 80 companies from both countries, the Japan-Ukraine Conference for Promotion of Economic Growth and Reconstruction, co-organized by government bodies, Keidanren, and JETRO, issued a joint communique affirming Japan’s sustained backing for Ukraine’s economic stability. The importance of maintaining robust sanctions against Russia was also highlighted.
In addition to announcing talks on revising a bilateral investment pact, Japan unveiled plans to ease travel restrictions for Japanese business visitors to Ukraine. While the conference primarily revolves around Ukraine’s reconstruction and investment, it assumes significance for Japan’s national security, given concerns about China’s assertive military actions in the region.
Kishida iterated that “Ukraine today could be East Asia tomorrow,” emphasizing Japan’s imperative to express opposition to Russia’s invasion and unilateral alterations of the status quo by force. Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa echoed this sentiment, asserting the importance of demonstrating solidarity with Ukraine in a distinctly Japanese manner.
Japan’s contribution of $12.1 billion to Ukraine over the past two years has predominantly been financial and humanitarian, with limitations on military equipment provisions to non-lethal weapons. This assistance contrasts with the substantial $111 billion provided by the United States in weapons, equipment, and humanitarian aid.
The Japanese government has delineated seven priority areas, encompassing mine and debris removal, improvements in humanitarian and living conditions, farming, biochemical manufacturing, the digital and information industries, power and transport infrastructure, and anti-corruption measures. In collaboration with other Group of Seven members, Japan aspires to connect the Tokyo conference with a separate Ukraine reconstruction conference scheduled for June in Germany.