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Following high-level Russian-Japanese talks in Tokyo, President Vladimir Putin stated that the two sides had a consensus on their approach to the peace treaty issue.

Relations between Russia and Japan are developing positively and at a good pace. Economic contacts between the two countries are expanding. Both countries have an interest in developing their partnership in the fuel and energy sector, information technology and infrastructure projects. Mr Putin’s official visit to Japan saw the signing of a package of agreements aimed at intensifying cooperation in these areas.

Russia and Japan are also expanding their political cooperation, in particular in the fight against crime and international terrorism, and in natural disaster relief and cleanup work.

But the fact that the two countries have still not signed a peace treaty is hindering more intensive development of bilateral economic relations, Mr Putin said at a joint press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi. Russia and Japan both realise that settling the peace treaty issue requires good will on both sides, farsightedness, and statesmanlike thinking.

Mr Putin invited Mr Koizumi to visit Russia. The invitation was accepted.