Japan, GCC Officials Meet to Discuss Middle East Stability, Oil Market in Wake of Mideast Tensions
TOKYO Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya sat down Monday with Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Dr. Jasem Al-Budaiwi to discuss rising fears regarding instability in the Middle East and the international oil market.
At the meeting, Iwaya highlighted the crucial role of GCC countries in ensuring regional and international stability, particularly in the face of existing geopolitical tensions, in a statement made by Japan’s Foreign Ministry.
He underscored Japan’s resolve to deepen political and economic relations with the GCC, indicating that Tokyo is keen to finalize talks on the highly awaited Japan-GCC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).
Dr. Al-Budaiwi gave a warm welcome to Japan’s engagement and reiterated the urgency of concluding the EPA. He also emphasized the possibility of deeper cooperation under the current Japan-GCC Action Plan, calling Tokyo a crucial strategic partner for the region.
In the course of intensifying bilateral relations, Al-Budaiwi invited a future meeting of foreign ministers from both parties.
The two leaders engaged in extensive talks on regional issues, such as the Israel-Iran conflict, assaults on Gaza, and the political and humanitarian crisis in Syria. They also expressed concern regarding activities posing a threat to maritime security and attacks on petroleum facilities.
Iwaya reiterated Japan’s commitment to sustaining diplomatic efforts towards maintaining the ceasefire agreement between Iran and Israel and promoting dialogue to reduce tensions.
Al-Budaiwi supplemented this stance, emphasizing that the GCC is firm on diplomacy and regional stability through dialogue.
Japan Turns to GCC for Middle East Stability
