Japanese Cabinet Secretary General Hirokazu Matsuno stated that within the backdrop of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s scheduled visit to Moscow, Tokyo is keeping a careful watch on the actions of both Russia and China as they navigate the evolving situation in Ukraine. The remark, reported by TASS, highlights Tokyo’s commitment to accurately assess regional dynamics while maintaining close ties with its allies and partners. In practical terms, Japan is seeking to gauge how Beijing and Moscow coordinate their messaging and policy steps, and how those moves may affect regional security, humanitarian outcomes, and the broader posture of international diplomacy surrounding Ukraine. The emphasis is on staying informed and prepared to respond in a way that upholds international norms and stability across the Indo-Pacific and Eurasian regions. Tokyo’s approach reflects a broader pattern of coordinated diplomacy among like-minded nations that are attentive to the implications of Moscow and Beijing’s actions for global peace and the rules-based order.
“We are closely monitoring the actions of Russia and China regarding the situation in Ukraine,” Matsuno affirmed, underscoring the vigilance that accompanies Japan’s high-level diplomatic engagement. The statement was delivered in a measured tone that seeks to balance prudent assessment with a clear message that Japan expects accountability and constructive behavior from the major powers involved. The move signals a steady, non-escalatory posture aimed at preventing missteps or misperceptions in a volatile regional environment. By keeping a close watch, Tokyo intends to be ready to adjust its own policies and provide timely, principled responses should developments on the ground or in international forums require recalibration. The commentary also reflects Japan’s long-standing preference for multilateral diplomacy and its willingness to work with partners to ensure humanitarian access, civilian protection, and adherence to international law.
Beyond monitoring, Matsuno’s remarks conveyed that Tokyo is urging Beijing to respond responsibly to the Ukraine crisis. This plea mirrors Japan’s insistence that major powers use their influence to de-escalate tensions, protect civilians, and support peaceful, lawful means of conflict resolution. The call to act responsibly encompasses not only public statements but also a commitment to transparent communication, verifiable steps, and collaborative efforts with international organizations. In practical terms, this means encouraging dialogue channels, supporting humanitarian corridors, and backing sanctions or diplomatic measures that are carefully calibrated to deter aggression while preserving the possibility of a negotiated settlement. Japan’s stance thus positions it as a cautious but active participant in shaping a measured response by Beijing that aligns with shared interests in regional stability and the postwar international order.
The upcoming official visit to Moscow by Xi Jinping, scheduled for March 20 to 22, has drawn attention for its potential to shape Sino-Russian ties at a moment of heightened global concern. The visit is framed as an opportunity to reinforce friendship between the two nations, advance peace-oriented dialogue, and open new perspectives in their strategic partnership. Observers expect discussions to cover a broad range of topics, including energy collaboration, security assurances, and coordinated approaches to major international issues. While the overarching goal appears to be sustaining a steady cooperation framework, analysts also anticipate nuanced negotiations on how the alliance will address existing sanctions regimes, regional conflict dynamics, and the evolving balance of power in Asia and Europe. The visit is viewed as a signal that Moscow and Beijing intend to project stability and unity on the world stage, even as they navigate differing internal priorities and external pressures.
As Dmitry Peskov, the press secretary for the Russian president, noted earlier, March 20 will feature an afternoon meeting and a joint lunch, followed by formal talks between Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping on March 21 in Moscow. The schedule underscores a stepwise approach to high-level engagement, combining informal diplomacy with formal bilateral discussions. The bilateral talks are expected to cover strategic cooperation, trade, and shared regional interests, with the possibility of outlining concrete steps or joint statements that could influence both countries’ policies and regional initiatives. The arrangement reflects a careful orchestration designed to present a united front on issues where Moscow and Beijing convene values and interests, while also accommodating the practical needs of diplomatic negotiation and public messaging surrounding a high-profile visit.