The Japanese Foreign Ministry said in its March 1 statement that it “expresses deep concern” over “the so called referendum” in South Ossetia, scheduled for April 9.

It also expressed its deep concern over “the closure of so-called crossing points along the occupation line of the Abkhazia region, which is causing grave violations of human rights.”

“It is Japan’s consistent position that peaceful resolution of the conflict in Georgia’s occupied regions of Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia and Abkhazia in line with the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognized borders is essential for the peace and stability of the country and the entire South Caucasus region,” the MFA statement said.

The Japanese Foreign Ministry added that the country opposes “any attempts to change Georgia’s internationally recognized borders.”