Statement by Mr. Hirofumi Nakasone, Minister for Foreign Affairs, on the Situation in the Gaza Strip

January 16, 2009

The Government of Japan strongly deplores the increasing number of civilian casualties in spite of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1860, and condemns the Israeli attack that has inflicted damages on a building of UNRWA and hospitals in the Gaza Strip.
Japan appreciates the ongoing consultation for a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militants through the mediation of Egypt and strongly hopes that it will make a good progress. Japan strongly urges both sides once again to achieve an immediate ceasefire in order to prevent further civilian casualties and facilities.
Japan has dispatched Amb.Tatsuo Arima, Special Envoy of the Government of Japan for the Middle East, to the region and is urging relevant parties for an immediate ceasefire. Japan will continue its cooperation to calm down the situation through such means as emergency humanitarian assistance and close consultations with relevant parties.

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