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The message reads:

“The history of ties between Russians and Japanese goes back more than three centuries. But undoubtedly, a particular significance was played in their development by the first Russian-Japanese treaty signed in Shimoda during vice-admiral Ye.V. Putyatin’s mission to Japan.

The events that coincided with the talks are deeply symbolic: the Japanese readily came to held Russian sailors in building a new ship to replace one that sank in a tsunami. And the talks themselves on the signing of the treaty were completed successfully thanks to the patience, good will and aspiration of the two sides to reach a compromise. The spirit of Shimoda found its embodiment in the first article of the Treaty that proclaimed “permanent peace and genuine friendship between Russia and Japan.” These noble aspirations of our ancestors should be remembered by us today.

It is pleasing the modern Russian-Japanese relations are based on mutual adherence to democratic values, on an interest in close cooperation on bilateral and international issues.

Our political dialogue is steadily developing, and diverse ties are intensifying in the trade and economic, scientific and technical, and cultural spheres.

This ceremony is being held at the wonderful time of the sakura blossoming. I hope that the plants that will be planted in Shimoda park today in honour of the anniversary will become a symbol of trust and friendship between our countries for long years to come.”

The message was read by the Russian Ambassador to Japan Aleksandr Losyukov.