Japan commits to supporting Ukraine in rebuilding and advancing agricultural sector

Japan has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ukraine in addressing the consequences of the war, including helping restore agricultural lands contaminated by conflict and boosting the productivity of the agricultural sector.

This was announced by Japanese Ambassador to Ukraine, Nakagome Masashi, during the Grain from Ukraine international conference on food security held in Kyiv.

Speaking on behalf of Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, the Ambassador outlined key areas of cooperation:

• Agricultural land demining: Japan will assist in neutralizing explosive devices in areas traditionally used for agricultural production.
• Restoring export capabilities: Support will include improving logistics and ensuring high standards of agricultural production.
• Increasing productivity: Japan will provide both expertise and financial aid to help modernize Ukraine's agricultural sector.

Ambassador Nakagome emphasized that Russia's aggression against Ukraine has created a major challenge for global food security. Despite the ongoing war, Ukrainian agricultural production remains vital for countries facing food shortages.

The Ambassador reiterated Japan's dedication to collaborating with the international community. Assisting in Ukraine's reconstruction, especially in the agricultural sector, continues to be a priority for the Japanese government.

"I would like to once again express my respect for the efforts of the Ukrainian government and its contribution to international food security through the Grain from Ukraine initiative launched by President Volodymyr Zelensky. Japan's support for Ukraine remains unwavering," said Nakagome Masashi.

"We will continue to work with the international community to actively contribute to resolving urgent issues, including in the food sector, with the goal of achieving a just and lasting peace in Ukraine," the Ambassador concluded on behalf of Japan's Prime Minister.

Assistance from Japan

On November 16, a meeting took place between Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and Japanese Minister of Foreign Affairs Takeshi Iwai, during which the two parties signed an agreement on information security. This agreement aims to establish a legal framework for the exchange of information between the state bodies of Ukraine and Japan.

Additionally, in 2024, Ukraine is set to receive 100 generators from Japan, with some already delivered on November 16.

The Japanese industrial drone manufacturer Prodrone is also preparing to supply its products to Ukraine for use in humanitarian demining operations.

This year, Japan will provide Ukraine with $4.5 billion in aid and will continue to assist throughout the ten-year duration of the agreement. The total amount of Japanese assistance to Ukraine since March 2022 will exceed $12 billion.