The signing of the agreement in May 2009 has been described as a breakthrough in economic relations between the two countries, who remain technically at war since no formal peace treaty was signed between Moscow and Tokyo following WWII.

In line with the deal, Russia and Japan intend to exchange information concerning nuclear security, cooperate in the development of uranium deposits, designing, construction and operation of light-water nuclear reactors, and in disposing of nuclear waste.

The agreement is now to be submitted for ratification to the lower house of the Russian parliament, the State Duma.

Sergei Kiriyenko, who heads the Rosatom state-controlled nuclear corporation, has said the agreement paves the way for multi-billion dollar joint projects between the two countries.

The Russian-Japanese deal was concluded for a term of 25 years. If none of the sides withdraws from the agreement by the end of the term, it will become permanent.