OREANDA-NEWS  Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, who, along with eight other Japanese citizens, was denied entry to Russia as a retaliatory measure, considers this step by Moscow unacceptable. At the same time, in his opinion, it is necessary to maintain communication with the Russian side.

"It is completely unacceptable to shift responsibility to Japan," he said, repeating Tokyo's position that the situation in Ukraine was the primary reason for Japanese measures against Russia. According to him, the Japanese side plans to make a statement to Russia soon expressing regret in this regard.

At the same time, Ivaya noted the importance of maintaining communication with the Russian side. "Relations between Japan and Russia are currently in a difficult state, but there are many issues that need to be resolved, especially between diplomatic agencies, so there are things that require communication with Russia," he said.

"From this point of view, I consider it unfortunate that I am banned from entering [Russia]. We would like to continue communicating with the Russian side in order to properly manage our bilateral relations," Ivaya added.