Zelensky and Japanese PM discuss grain exports and peace formula in phone call
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky had a phone conversation with Japanese PM Fumio Kishida. During the phone conversation, the Japanese Prime Minister assured the Ukrainian leader of his unwavering support for Ukraine.
Kishida condemned Russia's attacks on various regions of Ukraine and explained how aid from Japan, including through the NATO Trust Fund, is being provided.
The Prime Minister also assured that Japan will continue to use its G7 presidency to engage in dialogue with countries in the Global South and the Indo-Pacific region, the embassy's press service said.
Volodymyr Zelensky invited Japan to participate in the preparation of the Global Peace Summit.
During the conversation, Zelensky thanked Kishida for his comprehensive assistance, including support for the Ukrainian peace formula, and invited Japan to participate in the preparation of the Global Peace Summit.
We appreciate the G7 Declaration on Security Assurances for Ukraine adopted during the Japanese presidency. It is time to conclude relevant bilateral agreements within the framework of the declaration. We are ready to start this negotiation process with Japan as soon as possible, Zelensky said.
He informed the Prime Minister of Ukraine's efforts to extend the grain corridor by creating alternative routes, saying Ukraine is ready to further be a guarantor of global food security.
Zelensky presented the 10-point peace formula, supported by many Western countries, in November last year. It includes the restoration of Ukraine's territorial integrity, the complete withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine, and the release of all prisoners of war and deportees.
Previously, the Japanese PM pledged a new financial assistance batch to Ukraine worth $7 billion.
Japan may lift the ban on arms exports, opening the door to possible increased defense support for Ukraine. This will pave the way for sending fighter jets developed jointly with the UK and Italy to other countries.
Japan is also handing over 100 trucks for Ukrainian forces and 30,000 rations. The state became the first country to allocate funds worth $23 million to cover military risks when investing in Ukraine.