Minister Kishida: First of all, I would like to commend this initial step of these four representatives holding a meeting at the same table.

The Joint Geneva Statement on Ukraine has been issued, and this declaration states that all illegally seized buildings must be returned to legitimate owners. I recognize that steady and smooth implementation of this statement will be important going forward.

I intend to closely watch these initiatives in the future.

Japan has continued to strongly state that Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected, and that any changes to the status quo by force or coercion in the background are unacceptable.

 I believe that we must continue to thoroughly convey this message together with G7 countries and other relevant countries.