Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio has offered security and reconstruction support to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as the country battles Russia's invasion.
The leaders met in Italy on the sidelines of a Group of Seven summit on Thursday and signed an agreement on aid. It was their first encounter since May last year.
Kishida said he is very happy with the bilateral accord, which shows Japan's intention to stand with Ukraine. He said Japan will cooperate with other G7 nations and like-minded countries to provide strong backing to Kyiv.
Zelenskyy said the document will send a very powerful signal to the world and that he really appreciates Japan's contribution to Ukraine's reconstruction.
The accord says Japan will continue to provide security and defense assistance and cooperation to Ukraine in accordance with its constitutional and legal requirements and regulations. The support will include providing non-lethal defense equipment and other supplies and medical treatment of injured Ukrainian soldiers.
Under the agreement, Japan will also help with Ukraine's rebuilding efforts. This includes landmine removal, debris disposal and humanitarian aid.
Provisions in the pact also call for Japan and Ukraine to hold talks within 24 hours if Russia attacks Ukraine after the current invasion ends.