Statement by Mr. Masahiko Koumura, Minister for Foreign Affairs, on the Adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1803 concerning Iran’s Nuclear Issue

March 4, 2008

Japan appreciates the adoption of the UN Security Council Resolution 1803 on March 3rd (Mon) (New York time, Japan time: March 4th (Tue)) by, which contains additional measures concerning Iran’s nuclear issue.
Taking into account the firm maintenance of the nuclear non-proliferation regime, the relevance to North Korea’s nuclear issue and the stability of the Middle East, which has a great influence on energy supply, Japan considers that resolute measures should be taken on Iran’s nuclear issue and has been closely cooperating and liaising with the countries concerned in discussions towards the adoption of this resolution.
Japan considers it deplorable that despite repeated calls from the international community, Iran has yet to comply with the requirements of U.N. Security Council resolutions, including the suspension of enrichment-related activities. Strongly hoping that the issue will be solved through peaceful and diplomatic negotiations, Japan will seize every opportunity to urge Iran to accept such requirements and to return to the negotiation as promptly as possible.

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