Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and German Chancellor Angela Merkel agreed Monday to push Russia to play a "constructive role" in bringing about a peaceful settlement in Ukraine, according to Kyodo News Agency.
"Together with Chancellor Merkel, we would like to strongly urge Russia to play a constructive role toward a diplomatic and peaceful settlement of the Ukraine issue, including the full implementation of a cease-fire agreement" struck in February, Abe said in a joint news conference with Merkel after their meeting in Tokyo.
Abe said the situation in Ukraine does not warrant Russia rejoining the seven other major industrialized nations in forming the Group of Eight, but added it is important for the Group of Seven to continue talks with Moscow.