Kishida, Biden Hold Brief Talks On Sidelines Of G7 Summit
Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio talked briefly with US President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the Group of Seven summit in Germany on Monday.
The two leaders exchanged opinions on the situation in Ukraine. They confirmed that their countries will closely coordinate sanctions against Russia while supporting Ukraine.
They also agreed to cooperate toward the success of the economic version of a "two-plus-two" meeting between the foreign and economic ministers of the two countries. Arrangements are underway for the talks to be held at the end of July.
On the second day of the G7 summit being held in southern Germany's Schloss Elmau, Kishida pledged about 200 million dollars to help address a global food crisis amid Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
Kishida said an invasion like Russia's could occur elsewhere. He said it is the responsibility of the international community to help the people of Ukraine fighting on the frontlines. He went on to say that sanctions on Russia should not be lifted.
Kishida said Russia is spreading a false narrative that blames the global food crisis on Western sanctions. He said it is necessary to show that Russia's invasion is to blame.
He said Japan's aid would go to Ukraine and to Middle Eastern and African countries that are being hit hard by soaring food prices.
Kishida also announced plans to provide a total of 1.1 billion dollars in aid, including an additional 100 million dollars for humanitarian assistance.