Publication

This paper explores Russia-Japan relations in connection to the dispute over the South Kuril Islands. Russia administers the four islands, but Japan claims them as its own. The authors suggest that a new strategic approach to the issue could settle the dispute and help Moscow and Tokyo enhance their standing in the changing Asia-Pacific region. They also argue that solving the dispute is in the interest of both countries—Russia will gain a valuable partner to build up its underdeveloped eastern provinces and Japan will gain a new ally that will improve its security in Asia.