ILYUSHIN POSTPONES VISIT TO JAPAN.

Claiming that domestic developments preclude his leaving Russia at this time, Russian first deputy prime minister Viktor Ilyushin yesterday informed Tokyo that he would be unable to visit Japan as planned on February 28. According to a Japanese Foreign Ministry official, Ilyushin gave assurances the postponement was not a reflection of current bilateral relations. It was unclear whether a joint Japanese-Russian trade commission, of which Ilyushin is a co-chair, will convene as scheduled. (Itar-Tass, February 26. See Perspective item below)

Space Project May be Postponed.