Russia to build facilities on Kunashiri, Shikotan

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev says he wants to develop infrastructural projects on Kunashiri and Shikotan -- two of the 4 Russian-held islands claimed by Japan.Speaking at a meeting of the ruling United Russia party on Wednesday, Medvedev said the islands form an extremely important part of his country and need to receive more investment.

The prime minister said he promised residents to build sports and health facilities on Kunashiri and Shikotan Islands.Japan lodged a strong protest after Medvedev visited Kunashiri on July 3rd.

The joint declaration signed with the Soviet Union in 1956 stipulated that the island of Shikotan is to be returned to Japan after the signature of a peace treaty between the two countries.
inputs from NHK