Arab News Japan
TOKYO: Japanese Foreign Minister KAMIKAWA Yoko held a telephone talk with her Bahraini counterpart Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani on Monday and had a “frank exchange of views” on the situation in the Middle East.
Minister Kamikawa expressed her deep concern about the current situation in the Middle East and stated that Japan condemns any action that could lead to an escalation of the situation there. She said Japan has called on both Iran and Israel to exercise restraint.
With regarding to the situation in Gaza, Kamikawa called for an immediate ceasefire to create an environment that will allow for humanitarian assistance to those in need and the possibility of the hostages being released.
Kamikawa said she hopes that such actions will result in a more sustainable ceasefire and re-emphasized the importance of a two-state solution to resolve the issues in the region. She stated that Japan hopes to work closely with Arab countries, including Bahrain, which holds the presidency of the Arab League this year.
The two ministers also discussed issues concerning maritime security, particularly the situation in the Red Sea, and agreed to strengthen cooperation to maintain and strengthen the rule of law.
They also agreed to continue to work closely together in strengthening bilateral relations and in addressing various international issues.