Statement by Ms. Yoriko Kawaguchi, Minister for Foreign Affairs, on the Safe Return of the Three Japanese Who Were Taken Hostage in Iraq

April 15, 2004
Japanese

Ms. Yoriko Kawaguchi, Minister for Foreign Affairs, issued the following statement regarding the safe return of the three Japanese who were taken hostage in Iraq.

1. The Embassy of Japan in Baghdad reported that the three Japanese, Ms. Takato, Mr. Koriyama and Mr. Imai, who were taken hostage in Iraq, were released at Al Kubaisi Mosque in Al Amiriyah district in Baghdad and were under secure custody of Embassy officials, at 15:30 local time (20:30 Japan time) today. I am very much pleased, and I express my heartfelt delight for their families.

   The Government of Japan has made utmost efforts for their safe release since this incident had occurred. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude for the efforts of those concerned in Iraq and for the support from all over the world.

   
   
2. The security situation in Iraq is still unpredictable. The Government of Japan has issued "Evacuation advice for all residents" and has furthermore called for travel caution on a number of occasions. It is extremely regrettable that this incident had happened under these circumstances. I continue to strongly advise against any travel whatsoever to Iraq for any purpose. For those who will go abroad, I request again to bear in mind that "one needs to be responsible for one's own safety".

   The Government of Japan will make every possible effort to ensure the safety of Japanese nationals overseas.
   
   

3. The Government of Japan regards hostage-taking as an inexcusable criminal act. The Government will not bow in to such acts, and will continue to take a firm stance. Furthermore, Japan will continue to work to implement humanitarian and reconstruction assistance for Iraq, for the building of a democratic nation of the people of Iraq, by the people of Iraq, so that it would contribute to restoration of security and order in Iraq and to advance the political process smoothly.
   
   
   
4. As I have also learned that many other nationals are taken hostage, I strongly hope that all of them will be released safely as soon as possible. Moreover, the Government will continue its utmost efforts to identify the two Japanese nationals who have been unaccounted for.

Related Information (The Issue of Iraq)