Japan’s Role in Ukraine from 2014-2019

Abstract

Although Japan and Ukraine are geographically distant countries, since 1992 when Japan opened an embassy in the newly independent Ukraine, the two countries have enjoyed favorable diplomatic relations. The author, former Ambassador of Japan to Ukraine, describes developments in the relationship, outlines Japan’s assistance and support of Ukraine, and discusses establishment of the G7 Ambassadors’ Support Group for Ukraine in 2015. In his capacity as Chairman of this group, the author reviews various reforms in healthcare, judicial, and political fields in Ukraine that were supported by the G7 Ambassadors Support Group. In spite of Russia’s invasion, the author believes that the reforms made in Ukraine will not be lost.