Japanese minister warned over language on disputed islets

By Saadet Gokce

ISTANBUL (AA) - A Japanese minister was warned over his choice of words regarding disputed islands with Russia, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said Monday.

The warning followed remarks by Hitoshi Kikawada, minister for Okinawa and Northern Territories affairs, who on Saturday, while paying a visit to the region, referred to a cape on the easternmost tip of Hokkaido near the disputed islands as “the closest to a foreign nation,” according to Kyodo News.

The disputed islands are known as the Northern Territories in Japan and Southern Kurils in Russia.

"The islands are an integral part of Japan. The remarks can lead to misunderstanding," Kihara said.

Kikawada was urged to exercise greater caution, he added.

Following the comments, Kikawada told former residents of the islands that he would strive to be “more cautious and responsible” as a minister.

"It was a difficult statement for others to understand without knowing the overall context. I will continue to commit to the issue on Northern Territories as its responsible minister," he added.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said she had warned Kikawada by phone during a parliamentary committee session.

Kihara indicated that Kikawada is not expected to be removed from his post, expressing hope that he “would continue to work hard.”