Information about Japan joining NATO’s Ukraine program denied

The Japanese government has denied reports by local media claiming that Tokyo plans to join NATO’s PURL program established to support Ukraine and, within its framework, purchase US made equipment for transfer to Kyiv.

The Daily Baku reports, citing the government’s press service, that the issue was raised during a press conference by Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara.

Responding to journalists’ requests to comment on reports about Japan’s alleged decision to join the PURL program, he said: “We are aware of the reports you mentioned. At present, claims that such an agreement has been reached between us and NATO do not correspond to reality.”

At the same time, Kihara emphasized that Japan will continue to provide assistance aimed at the recovery and strengthening of Ukrainian society and the economy.