Russian, Japanese deputy foreign ministers hold consultations in Moscow
MOSCOW. April 19 (Interfax) - Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Vladimir Titov and his Japanese counterpart Takeo Akiba have met in Moscow to discuss security in the Asia-Pacific region, North Korea's nuclear problem, and Syria.
The consultations involved "a comprehensive review of the situation in the Asia Pacific region, covering issues such as the formation of regional security architecture, the nuclear problem of Korean peninsula, and the Middle East, including the state of affairs in Syria," the Russian Foreign Ministry said.
"On international affairs, the focus was on more cooperation to settle global and regional problems, including in the spheres of fighting international terrorism, the proliferation of drugs and other modern-day challenges and threats," the ministry said.
"The parties exchanged their views on the situation around the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action to ensure a peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program, and the prospects of conflict resolution in Ukraine," the ministry said.
The two diplomats also discussed the prospects of developing bilateral relations in all areas in the framework of efficient preparations for Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit due in May.
"It was agreed to hold the next round of strategic dialogue in Japan before the end of 2018," the ministry said.
Akiba also met with Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov.