TOKYO: Japan’s Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya met on Monday with the GCC’s Secretary-General Dr. Jasem Al-Budaiwi to discuss the global oil industry and growing instability in the Middle East.
Iwaya said the GCC countries are playing an increasingly important role amid regional and international turmoil, Japan’s Foreign Ministry stated.
Japan wants to deepen political and economic cooperation with the GCC to bring peace and stability to the region, including the conclusion of the Japan-GCC Economic Partnership Agreement negotiations.
Al-Budaiwi said the regional bloc was also hoping for the completion of EPA talks, and further cooperation under the Japan-GCC Action Plan.
Al-Budaiwi added that Tokyo was an important partner and extended an invitation for a meeting of the two parties’ foreign ministers.
The officials spoke candidly about issues in the Middle East, including the Israel and Iran conflict, attacks on the Gaza Strip and situation in Syria.
Iwaya said Japan would continue its diplomatic efforts to ensure the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran is implemented and avenues for dialogue are reopened.
Al-Budaiwi echoed this view and said the GCC nations remained committed to dialogue.
The officials shared their concerns about acts that threaten shipping routes, and attacks on oil facilities.
