Gvishiani-Kosygina shared her recollections of her father, saying, “When he came home (on Sep 17, 1974), he said, “Today, I’ve met with an extraordinary, very interesting man.”

On September 17, 1974, Mr Ikeda, then Soka Gakkai president, met with Premier Aleksei Kosygin for the first time at the Kremlin. “The Japanese are fond of Russian literature and Russian folk songs,” Mr Ikeda said. But they have the general impression that the Soviet Union is a scary country. This is unfortunate for both people and the only way to further understanding is to actively promote cultural exchange on a people-to-people basis.”

To Mr Ikeda’s proposal, Mr Kosygin nodded and said with a firm voice, “I completely agree.”

In May 1981, Mr Ikeda made his third visit to the Soviet Union. He visited Lyudmila A. Gvishiani Kosygina, daughter of the former Soviet premier Aleksei Kosygin, who died while in office half a year earlier at the age of 76.

Ms Gvishiani-Kosygina shared her recollections of her father, saying, “When he came home (on Sep 17, 1974), he said, “Today, I’ve met with an extraordinary, very interesting man. I was happy that, though touching on some complicated issues, the discussion was mutually rewarding and even exhilarating.“

She said: “Please receive these as mementos,” as she brought in a crystal vase and two books which her father had authored and kept in his study until his passing. “These books still hold the warmth of his hands. On behalf, I’d like to present them to you.” When she handed to me these leather-bound books, her eyes were well up with tears. I will remember her forever.