A historic event took place in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine: for the first time in history, the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Japanese Parliament gave a speech in the session hall of the Ukrainian Parliament.
In his address, Eisuke Mori recalled how Ukraine was among the first to render assistance to Japan following the 2011 earthquake and the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident. Fifteen years later, he personally expressed his gratitude to the Ukrainian people for that solidarity.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Japanese Parliament expressed his respect for the courage and patriotism of Ukrainians, and assured that Japan will do everything for the sake of peace in Ukraine.
Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Ruslan Stefanchuk held a meeting with Eisuke Mori. The parties discussed key issues of practical importance for Ukraine, in particular, strengthening of air defence capabilities and holding the aggressor state accountable.
Ruslan Stefanchuk expressed his gratitude to his Japanese counterpart for his long-standing efforts to develop Ukrainian-Japanese relations, as well as for his personal support and Japan's financial assistance, which has already exceeded $20 billion.
"We truly feel Japan standing by our side. We feel this support not only in words, but in concrete actions," stressed the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine.
Eisuke Mori shared that visiting Ukraine was the fulfillment of a long-held dream. He arrived at the Verkhovna Rada wearing a vyshyvanka, a traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirt.
"For me, this is more than a gesture—it is a deeply personal symbol of respect for Ukraine and solidarity with our people," noted Ruslan Stefanchuk.
The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine thanked Eisuke Mori for his historic visit to Ukraine, his personal solidarity, and the powerful words delivered from the rostrum of the Parliament. He particularly highlighted his Japanese counterpart’s assurances that Japan will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine.
"For us, these are not just words—it is support we feel through concrete actions. Ukraine and Japan are partners and friends, and this visit reaffirms that once again," emphasized Ruslan Stefanchuk.
