Moscow paid attention to the fact that Japan's traditional commemoration of the "Day of Northern Territories" took place this year in a more provocative, anti-Russian atmosphere, said the statement, adding:

The "Movement for Return of Northern Territories" backed by the Japanese government convened a "national gathering" at an international conference hall in Tokyo. Ringing out from the gathering were unforgivable and unreasonable voices claiming the dominium over the Southern Kurils, a legitimate part of the Russian territory.

The Foreign Ministry of Russia expresses resentment against what high-ranking officials said at the gathering. Unpardonable in view of diplomatic practice are their remarks concerning visits to the Southern Kurils paid by the Russian President and other officials some time ago.

Their hostile rhetoric is an outcome of Japan's policy. In particular, the fund the Japanese government provides to the "Movement for Return of Northern Territories" has steadily increased. Intentionally inciting the public to anti-Russian sentiments is obviously against statements of Tokyo which underline the need to develop cooperation and partnership with Moscow.

Russia lodges a strong protest against the Japanese authorities' inexcusable position. At the same time, Russia makes it clear that it can never accept Tokyo's territorial claim and denounces the provocative moves.

The Japanese government is obliged to take all necessary measures to prevent the recurrence of such anti-Russian acts.