Kishida, Macron discuss Russia's war against Ukraine

During his visit to Paris, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida held talks with French President Emmanuel Macron on key issues, including Russia's war in Ukraine.

That's according to Japan Today, Ukrinform reports.

"Macron thanked Japan for its economic and humanitarian support to Ukraine and said both countries will work jointly to face the global consequences of Russia's invasion, especially energy and food security issues," the statement said.

It added that Macron and Kishida's talks come as Japan is leading the Group of Seven most advanced economies and is preparing the next G7 summit scheduled in May in Hiroshima.

During their talks, Kishida and Macron also confirmed the need for the G7 to maintain strict sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine since February 2022 and continue to support Kyiv, the Japanese Foreign Ministry said.

Kishida expressed eagerness to pitch his vision of a world without nuclear weapons at the G7 gathering, with fears mounting that Russia may use a nuclear device against Ukraine.

Kishida told Macron that he will demonstrate the G7's "strong commitment" to rejecting attempts to change the status quo by force, threats or the use of nuclear arms, as well as maintaining a free and open international order.

During the meeting, both politicians notably addressed North Korea's nuclear and missile development.

"Japan can count on our unfailing support to face flagrant breaches to international law from Pyongyang," Macron said.

Kishida's five nation-tour will also take him to Italy, Britain, Canada and the U.S. where he will have talks on Friday with President Joe Biden.

Photo: Gonzalo Fuentes/Pool