Statement by Japanese Foreign Minister Masahiko Koumura on the agreements in the Middle East peace talks

October 24, 1998

Japan welcomes that the Israelis and Palestinians made courageous decisions to reach the recent agreements on the critical issues of the negotiations, which have long been the focus of negotiation between them.
Japan also highly appreciates the devoted and patient efforts made by the U.S. during the course of the difficult mediation between the parties.
Japan strongly hopes that further efforts will be made by the two parties to advance the peace talks, based on the Oslo Accord, to reach agreements on various remaining issues, including those concerning the final status of Palestine. We will continue, in cooperation with the international community, to offer as much support as possible to these efforts by the parties.

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