Japan-Israel Relations
Courtesy Call on Prime Minister Bennett of the State of Israel by Foreign Minister Motegi
August 18, 2021
On August 18, commencing at 4:30 p.m. (local time; on August 18, 10:30 p.m. JST) for 50 minutes, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Naftali BENNETT, Prime Minister of the State of Israel, during his visit to Israel. The overview of the courtesy is as follows.
- At the outset, both Minister Motegi and Prime Minister Bennett were delighted with their reunion for the first time in 7 years and expressed congratulations on the success of both Japanese and Israeli athletes at the Tokyo Olympic Games.
- Both sides confirmed that they would further strengthen bilateral relations seizing the opportunity of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year. They also shared the view to promote cooperation and dialogue with an aim to liberalize and facilitate trade and investment between the both governments. Prime Minister Bennett expressed a sense of anticipation for further strengthening of business relations.
- On the Middle East Peace, while explaining Japan’s support for a “two-state solution,” Minister Motegi expressed an expectation for continuous cooperation of Israel for Japan's efforts, such as the “Corridor for Peace and Prosperity” initiative, to provide assistance to the Palestinians as well as to promote confidence building among the concerned parties. In response, Prime Minister Bennett expressed his intention to work with international community, including Japan, toward the regional stability.
- Minister Motegi also introduced Japan's efforts to achieve a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)" and stated that this vision will contribute to the development of the Middle East, and gained full support of Prime Minister Bennett. Prime Minister Bennett also stressed the importance of maritime security and freedom of navigation, referring to the attack on a ship in the Arabian Sea off the coast of Oman last month.
- Minister Motegi and Prime Minister Bennett exchanged views on the situation in East Asia including China and North Korea. Minister Motegi asked for understanding and cooperation for the immediate resolution of the abduction issue, and gained support from Prime Minister Bennett.