Putin Optimistic on Improving Ties

Russian President Vladimir V. Putin arrived in Japan on a three-day visit and said he is optimistic about improving long-troubled relations between the two former Cold War enemies. He is eager to build on a rapprochement initiated by his predecessor, Boris N. Yeltsin, and to tap Japanese investment in Russia’s fragile economy. The nations are struggling to conclude a peace treaty by the end of the year to formally terminate World War II hostilities. However, they remain far apart on the ownership of four tiny islands held by Moscow since the end of the war.