Putin’s Foreign Policy towards Japan(2000-2008): The Issue of Territorial Dispute

Abstract

This paper examines Russia’s policy towards the territorial issue with Japan during the Putin Era(2000-2008). Both states have failed to narrow differences over the disputes during the Putin regime. Russia’s policy did not change the general attitude towards the territorial issue. Japan’s basic goal also remained unchanged. Both sides did not find a reasonable compromise on the basis of a balance of bilateral interests. That means it is very difficult to resolve the issue in the near future. Thus, I would like to suggest a way of settling the territorial dispute between Russia and Japan. First, any territorial negotiations must be based on long-term strategies. Gradualism represents a realistic approach, they will only make progress in the territorial disputes if they do so in a way that benefits both countries. Second, they must persist in efforts to build mutual trust. Third, they should adopt a more constructive attitude to the territorial problem and show readiness for mutual concessions. Finally, patience in diplomatic negotiations is still valid today in the process of negotiation between Japan and Russia for resolving the territorial dispute.