Statement by Press Secretary/Director-General for Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on the situation in the Gaza Strip

January 30, 2009
Japanese

The Government of Japan is deeply concerned about the continuation of sporadic fightings for the past few days despite the declarations of a ceasefire by both Israel and Palestinian militants.
Japan strongly hopes that a permanent ceasefire will be achieved as soon as possible. In this regard, Japan urges both sides to excersice their utmost self-restraint in order to keep the current ceasefire. Japan supports the efforts of relevant parties including, inter alia, Egypt’s mediation efforts.
Japan is actively making efforts to help improve the dire humanitarian situation, and hopes that an early and continuous opening of the crossings will be achieved in order to ensure the smooth provision of humanitarian assistance to the people in Gaza.

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