Japanese Justice Minister Furukawa Yoshihisa says the government has started offering language lessons to Ukrainian evacuees at temporary accommodation facilities.

Furukawa told reporters on Thursday that the lessons began on Monday as part of assistance for Ukrainians who have fled to Japan. He said he has heard that many evacuees are attending the classes.

He also said the situation in Ukraine remains unclear and that the evacuees may be forced to stay in Japan for a long time.

The minister noted that it is important to offer opportunities for the evacuees to learn Japanese, which will be necessary for everyday life.

He said the government will take measures to help the evacuees learn the language according to individual needs.

Furukawa said his ministry will also work closely with the Agency for Cultural Affairs, which is responsible for language education for foreigners living in Japan.