Asia-Pacific

Russian president visits Kurile islands

(Agencies)
Updated: 2010-11-01 08:48

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev (C) poses with Russian kindergarten teachers during his visit to Kunashiri Island, one of four island known as the Southern Kuriles in Russia and Northern Territories in Japan, is seen in this photo taken by a resident of Kunashiri Island and relased by Kyodo News, November 1, 2010. [Photo/Agencies]

The island chain stretches northeast from Japan's main northern island of Hokkaido to Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula. Kunashir lies about 10 miles (16 km) from Hokkaido.

The dispute is a perennial subject of talks when Japanese and Russian leaders meet, but there have been no signs of a potential breakthrough for years.

Politicians in both countries have used tough talk on the dispute to bolster their credential as patriots.