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Russia-Japan trade in 2011 exceeds $30 bln

Lavrov described the talks held with his Japanese counterpart as “positive and useful”

TOKYO, January 28 (Itar-Tass) — Trade turnover between Russia and Japan on the results of 2011exceeded 30 billion dollars, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Saturday.

The Russian minister described the talks held with his Japanese counterpart Koichiro Gemba on Saturday as “positive and useful.” “Both sides confirmed their readiness to advance an active constructive dialogue at the summit and high levels,” Lavrov noted. “We considered the whole spectrum of Russian-Japanese relations, outlined prospects for their further deepening.”

“We stated that our trade turnover last year reached a record-high sum of over 30 billion dollars,” Lavrov said.

The minister added in conclusion that the sides intend to expand economic ties, first of all at the expense of highly technological sectors.

The foreign ministers signed an agreement on easing the visa regime between the two countries. Lavrov is confident that it would promote the deepening of cultural and humanitarian ties. He said that he was getting ready for signing an agreement on the fight with poaching, as well as on the opening of cultural centers.