Muneo Suzuki visits Russia to discuss the issue of ancestral grave visits by indigenous people from the Northern Territories; Russian side responds that it may consider the proposal.

Suzuki Munao: Russia May Agree to Allow Original Inhabitants of the Northern Islands to Visit Graves

On May 31, after returning from a visit to Russia, Senator Suzuki Munao held a briefing in Nemuro City, Hokkaido, discussing with Russia the possibility of allowing original residents of the Northern Territories to visit their ancestral graves.

Suzuki mentioned that during his visit to Russia, he raised the issue of the stalled visits by Northern Island residents to graves since 2020 with Deputy Foreign Minister Ludenko. He said: "Ludenko responded that if Japan submits an official request, we will consider it."

Suzuki stated: "If Japan demonstrates a firm commitment to improving relations with Russia, I believe it is possible to conduct grave visits this year."

Furthermore, Suzuki remarked: "Japan should adopt a long-term perspective on its future diplomacy with Russia."

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1866717783223307/

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