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Meeting Between Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi and Special Presidential Envoy James A. Baker III of the United States

December 29, 2003

1. Today, Prime Minister Koizumi met with US Special Presidential Envoy James A. Baker III. They exchanged views on reconstruction of Iraq, including the Iraqi debt issue.
2. Prime Minister Koizumi stated that Japan will closely work with members of the international community including the United States for the reconstruction of Iraq. Mr. Baker reiterated US high appreciation for Japan's commitment to the reconstruction of Iraq, as was demonstrated at the International Conference on Reconstruction in Iraq at Madrid.
3. Prime Minister Koizumi stated that Japan is committed to provide substantial debt reduction for Iraq in the Paris Club in 2004, and will work closely with other countries including the US to achieve this objective. This is essential for ensuring the Iraqi people to have the opportunity to build a free and prosperous Iraq, and is of special importance to the international security and stability. In this context, Prime Minister Koizumi noted that, in keeping with Japan's global leadership role in Iraq's reconstruction, Japan would be prepared to eliminate the vast majority of its Iraqi debt, if other Paris Club creditors are prepared to do so in the context of a Paris Club agreement. Mr. Baker welcomed and highly appreciated Prime Minister's statement. The precise figures of debt reduction should be a matter to be decided through the negotiation among the parties. The two countries are prepared to begin negotiations promptly, together with other members of the international community.