Both Russia and Japan can benefit greatly from Japanese investment in the development of Siberia's natural resources, which would provide Russia with badly needed foreign exchange and Japan with a nearby less expensive source of energy and raw materials. Once both countries have established good relations, it will be easier for Russia to return the islands without loss of face. Because Japan developed close and friendly relations with the United States, the United States decided to return Okinawa voluntarily, not under the threat of an ultimatum. But those are also the most difficult questions to settle. Addressing relatively easy issues, where neither side has to make any major concessions and both can derive clear benefits, can build mutual trust that allows to solve more challenging problems later.
Every long journey begins with a first step.