Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has expressed his eagerness to start high-level talks on the issue of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea, aiming to realize a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

"I've been expressing my resolve to face up to him directly," Kishida told reporters Monday, underscoring his intent to make preparations to realize the bilateral summit.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has reiterated his resolve to hold a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un over the issue of abductions of Japanese nationals. | KYODO
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has reiterated his resolve to hold a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un over the issue of abductions of Japanese nationals. | KYODO