The message said, in part: “Russian-Japanese relations are consistently developing toward constructive partnership, which promotes both countries’ strategic interests. Based on agreements made during summits, bilateral contacts are progressing in such essential fields as interaction in international affairs, trade and economic cooperation, and negotiations for a peace treaty.”
In conclusion, Mr Putin expressed his hope for constructive team efforts “to step up the progress of Russian-Japanese relations in every field, and strengthen the admirable traditions of Russian-Japanese contacts.”