The Japanese government is sending a representative to the Sochi Paralympics.

Senior Vice Education Minister Yoshitaka Sakurada is on his way to attend tomorrow’s (Friday) opening ceremony.

With the Russian army occupying part of the Ukraine, world powers including the U-S and Great Britain have decided against sending representatives.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said Japan is well aware of the situation with Russia but that politics should not interfere with the Paralympics.

Japan’s decision is also based on its position as host of the upcoming 2020 Olympic games.