Realizing it had overstepped, the Japanese government quickly moved to extend an olive branch to the Soviet Union, eager to de-escalate tensions. Prime Minister Kiichi Miyazawa publicly blamed Defense Minister Gen Nakatani for provoking the crisis and promised to negotiate with Moscow over the disputed four northern islands. He urged the Soviets to show restraint and tolerance on the sensitive territorial issue.
To everyone's surprise, Moscow responded with an unexpectedly conciliatory tone. Prime Minister Pavlov expressed willingness to enter friendly talks, emphasizing that both nations shared a common interest in resolving sovereignty disputes peacefully. Where there had once been threats and hardline rhetoric, now smiles and politeness prevailed.
But this sudden warmth was no act of Soviet generosity. It was a calculated move. The Soviets did not want a prolonged conflict with Japan, nor did they wish to fall into an American trap designed to expand regional hostilities. Their aim was to stabilize the Asia-Pacific region and maintain overall control.
Miyazawa saw through this strategy. Determined not to be a pawn in U.S. schemes, he committed to suppressing Japan's right-wing factions and fostering a stable international environment—key to rescuing Japan's faltering economy. The Soviets shared this vision and sought to turn the Southern Kuril Islands into a bargaining chip, hoping to leverage economic cooperation with Japan.
When Pavlov arrived in Tokyo again, his demeanor was markedly different from the aggressive posture he had shown during earlier talks with Kaifu Toshiki. At the airport, he warmly embraced Miyazawa and presented him with a precious Russian amber necklace.
"I treasure this gift very much," Miyazawa said, carefully turning the amber in his palm, clearly impressed. The Soviets had clearly chosen their gift with care.
"May the friendship between our peoples last forever, like this amber," Pavlov said with a smile. The double meaning was not lost on Miyazawa. The two leaders walked and chatted easily, their geniality belying the recent tensions. It was a reminder that in politics, everyone was a master actor.
Yet beneath the warm smiles, tough negotiations awaited. Miyazawa broke the ice:"I believe the best way to resolve the dispute over the Northern Four Islands is to set aside sovereignty claims temporarily and focus on joint development. These islands are rich fishing grounds, and cooperative exploitation would benefit both sides."
In reality, this proposal favored Japan. The islands were heavily guarded by Soviet forces, and the waters were effectively Soviet territory. Japan's entry into joint development would give it significant economic leverage without needing military confrontation. Pavlov understood Japan's intent but played along diplomatically.
"If joint development can serve as a temporary solution, I have no objection," Pavlov said carefully. "However, there is another matter I wish to discuss."
Miyazawa narrowed his eyes, sensing a hidden agenda. "What is it?"
"We want to place a long-term order with Japan for high-end computer chips and related technology," Pavlov explained. "This would be a mutually beneficial deal, guaranteeing stable economic exchange each year."
The proposal sparked excitement in the Japanese delegation. Besides the immediate economic benefits of cooperation on the islands, a steady flow of Soviet orders for advanced electronics would invigorate Japan's struggling economy.
Miyazawa adopted a cautious stance. "We need to carefully consider Prime Minister Pavlov's proposal," he said, aware that negotiation was about finding the right price. Japan's superiority in cutting-edge chip technology meant they could push for better terms.
Pavlov laughed softly, reading Miyazawa's hesitation. "Prime Minister, we both know our bargaining chips. Focusing on short-term gains can cause us to lose far greater benefits down the line. It's a risk not worth taking."
"The Soviet Union's computer development lags behind Japan's. That's why Yanayev sought to use the islands as leverage," Pavlov added. "Demanding higher prices may yield profits now, but it jeopardizes future cooperation."
Miyazawa nodded slowly. "I understand. We do welcome expanded trade with the Soviet Union beyond just computers."
Realizing Japan wouldn't push further, Pavlov smiled. "I look forward to seeing Soviet-Japanese trade grow and prosper, Prime Minister."
The two shook hands warmly, sealing a fragile but promising agreement. Miyazawa, however, inwardly lamented Japan's weakness. Facing a Soviet leader so confident and poised, he felt the bitter truth: a weak nation has no real diplomacy. For the first time, Miyazawa truly grasped the weight of that old saying.