国际英语新闻：Russia calls on Japan to face realities on disputed islands

MOSCOW, Feb. 5 (Xinhua) -- Russian Foreign Ministry Saturday reiterated Russia's sovereignty over the disputed Southern Kuril islands, saying Japan should face the territory realities.

In its Saturday statement, Russian Foreign Ministry expressed disappointment in Japan's claims on the Southern Kuril islands, saying Japan should adopt "a sober and balanced attitude to the realities."

"We hope the objective territory realities, which was worked out following the results of the World War II and enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations will prevail in Tokyo," the statement said.

"Stopping the artificial emphasis on 'island' issue would help to create a calm and constructive atmosphere for Japanese-Russian dialogue," the statement added.

Russian Defense Minister Anatoly Serdyukov Friday visited the Southern Kuril islands, in the wake of a series of visits by Russian officials. Japan has expressed its regret over Serdyukov's visit.

Russia and Japan have long been at odds over the sovereignty of the four Pacific islands, which are called the Northern Territories in Japan and the Southern Kurils in Russia.

Russia President Medvedev visited Kunashiri Island last November. He is the first Russian leader to travel to any of the disputed islands. Japan temporarily recalled its ambassador from Moscow to protest Medvedev's visit.