Japan's foreign minister has highlighted the country's resolve to continue supporting Ukraine along with like-minded countries. He stressed that this includes assistance for recovery and reconstruction in the mid- to long term.



Iwaya Takeshi was speaking at a Group of 20 foreign ministers meeting that began in South Africa on Thursday.



He expressed hope that diplomatic efforts will help end fighting in Ukraine and pave the way for breakthroughs in difficult circumstances.



Iwaya aired serious concerns over growing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. He condemned the participation of North Korean soldiers in fighting against Ukrainian troops in Russia.



Iwaya said the international community faces a major challenge to the rule of law. He added that Japan will never accept unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force anywhere in the world, including the East and South China seas.



The minister made the remarks apparently with China, Russia and other countries in mind.



Iwaya also emphasized the need for the G20 to play a leading role in international cooperation.