Lavrov Summons Japanese Ambassador After Diplomatic Snub

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that the Japanese ambassador was summoned but did not appear for an unspecified reason, which he found surprising. Lavrov also indicated that Russia will sign a memorandum of understanding on cooperation, including in the security sphere, with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in the near future.

Lavrov made these remarks during a joint press conference with his Ghanaian counterpart, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. The Russian Foreign Minister further voiced concerns regarding the involvement of Ukrainian military personnel in terrorist attacks in Africa, attributing their deployment to foreign backers.

The President of Ghana has confirmed his participation in the Russia-Africa summit scheduled for October in Moscow. Lavrov also criticized Japanese statements concerning President Putin’s visit to Iturup, accusing Tokyo of lacking diplomatic courtesy. He suggested that Japan should focus on its internal affairs rather than criticizing Russia.