Japan’s PM to visit Russia and Middle East

Japanese officials say they are preparing for a visit by Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to Russia and the Middle East, sometime between late April and early May. Abe will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss a territorial dispute between the two countries over four islands, according to the Japan’s (NHK WORLD) website. Putin told Abe’s envoy last month that officials from Japan and Russia should seek a solution to the dispute that is acceptable for both sides. The two leaders are also expected to discuss North Korea’s nuclear program and the development of natural resources in Siberia. Japan’s Prime Minister Abe also wants to visit Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. He will try to deepen ties with Middle East nations to secure a stable supply of oil for Japan. Abe and Saudi Arabian officials may also discuss cooperation in the field of nuclear power generation.