Year of Japan officially launched in Ukraine. Photos

As an Ukrinform correspondent reports, the ceremony was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps, Ukrainian parliamentarians and government officials, representatives of the Ukrainian-Japanese business community and cultural organizations.

"Ukraine considers Japan to be a very important partner. Over last 25 years, Japan has proved that it is a true friend of our country, which supports us morally and provides comprehensive support for the reforms," Klimkin said.

Klimkin reminded that President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko during his official visit to Japan in April 2016 had announced his intention to declare 2017 the Year of Japan in Ukraine in a sign of respect and gratitude for 25 years of friendship and partnership between our countries.

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Ukraine Shigeki Sumi, in turn, stressed that 25 years of diplomatic relations between our two countries showed fruitfully cooperation in many areas. In particular, he noted the exchange of experience in overcoming the consequences of nuclear accidents.

"Japan is working closely with the G7 and the European Union, but the Ukrainian issue is also on the agenda of our country, and the bilateral relations between Japan and Ukraine are important to us. We will continue to support and cooperate to ensure peace and stability in Ukraine," the diplomat noted.

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