Statement by Mr. Hirofumi Nakasone, Minister for Foreign Affairs, on the Adoption of the United Nations Security Council Resolution concerning the Situation in the Middle East

January 9, 2009

As a member of the United Nations Security Council, Japan is gratified that the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) adopted Resolution 1860 on January 9 (January 8, New York time) regarding the situation in the Middle East.
The Government of Japan has approached countries concerned emphasizing that the UN Security Council, which is responsible for maintaining international peace and security, should play a role in resolving the current situation. In this connection, Japan is satisfied that the UN Security Council sent a unified message to the international community.
Upon the adoption of this resolution, Japan strongly urges both Israel and the Palestinian militants to respond seriously to the mediation efforts by the countries concerned and to reach an immediate ceasefire. Japan will endeavor to resolve the current situation by continuing its approaches to the parties and the countries concerned.

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