PRIMAKOV TO JAPAN.

Russian foreign minister Yevgeny Primakov arrived in Tokyo today for a three-day visit that will include talks with his Japanese counterpart, Yukihiko Ikeda, and with Prime Minister Ryutaro Hashimoto. Both sides have expressed optimism that the visit will boost bilateral relations, and a Japanese government official said he hoped for progress in the long-standing Kuril Islands dispute. Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin and Defense Minister Igor Rodionov are scheduled to make official visits next year to Japan. (Itar-Tass, November 13)

Conciliatory Commission Finishes Work on the Budget.