(MENAFN) Japan’s newly elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi pledged on Wednesday “strong support” to Ukraine in pursuit of a “just and lasting peace” during her first phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, according to reports.

Takaichi highlighted the assistance Japan has already provided and affirmed that Tokyo “continues to implement support for Ukraine's recovery and reconstruction.” She noted that the conflict’s consequences extend beyond Ukraine, affecting the international order, and reiterated that Japan’s stance on Ukraine “would not change.”

On his part, Zelenskyy emphasized Japan’s “unwavering assistance and principled stance” since the start of Russia’s invasion. He said the leaders discussed joint efforts to “bring more security and development” to both nations and regions, including the development of controlled arms exports and partnerships for modern weapons production. Zelenskyy also highlighted Ukraine’s need to bolster air defense systems to protect civilian lives and critical energy infrastructure.

Zelenskyy praised Japan’s readiness to assist in the energy sector and expressed interest in expanding collaboration in reconstruction and recovery. He concluded by inviting Takaichi to visit Ukraine, emphasizing the “even greater potential for cooperation” between the two countries and the prospect of achieving tangible joint results.

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