MOSCOW, December 16. /TASS/. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe hopes to take part in the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok in 2017, the statement published on the official website of the Ministry for the Development of the Russian Far East said.

"Shinzo Abe confirmed readiness to participate in the 3rd Eastern Economic Forum which will be held on September 6-7 in Vladivostok," the statement said. The press release was published after Russian President Vladimir Putin's meeting with Abe which was also attended by Russian Minister for the Development of the Far East Alexander Galushka.

Abe took part in the 2nd Eastern Economic Forum in September 2016. He then held a bilateral meeting with Putin in Vladivostok. It became an important stage in preparations for Putin's current visit to Japan.