The Russian Foreign Ministry called Tokyo's renunciation of hostility a condition for dialogue with Russia.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko, during a meeting with a delegation of the leadership of the Japanese Sasakawa Peace Foundation on March 26, stressed the need for Tokyo to abandon its anti-Russian policy in order to resume bilateral dialogue. This was reported by the press service of the Russian Foreign Ministry.

During the event, Rudenko and representatives of the Japanese organization discussed the current state of relations between Moscow and Tokyo.

"It was emphasized once again that the path to full-fledged cooperation can only be opened by Japan's rejection of its hostile policy towards Russia, confirmed by concrete steps," the Foreign Ministry's website says.

In addition, the parties discussed the prospects for restoring scientific exchange between the countries. During the meeting, the Sasakawa Peace Foundation announced its intention to actively develop ties with Russian academic institutions.

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On January 10, Japan imposed sanctions against 11 individuals and 29 legal entities registered in the Russian Federation. In addition, 22 Russian organizations were banned from exporting goods to Japan.

Later, on February 28, Russian Ambassador to Japan Nikolai Nozdrev said that the government of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, by its actions against Russia, demonstrates shortsightedness and limited understanding of global geopolitical processes. The diplomat added that Tokyo's hostile actions will not remain without consequences.

Shortly after, on March 3, the Russian Foreign Ministry imposed a ban on the entry of nine Japanese citizens, including the country's Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya. The ministry noted that the restrictions were Moscow's response to Tokyo's anti-Russian sanctions.