Middle East

On January 20 (local time), in Jerusalem, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe had telephone talks individually with His Majesty King Abdullah II of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, President Erdogan of the Republic of Turkey and President el-Sisi of the Arab Republic of Egypt. The outline of the talks was as follows.

1. Prime Minister Abe stated as follows.
   

   (1) ISIL has released a video on the internet announcing its intent to kill Japanese individuals. A threat of this kind in exchange of peoples’ lives is an unacceptable act of terrorism, and I feel strong indignation.

   (2) The assistance of 200 million dollars which I announced during my visit this time to the Middle East is to make as much contribution as possible in the non-military areas, such as to provide assistance to the refugees.

   (3) The ISIL’s response to such efforts is a manifestation of their savage nature. Japan will not succumb to terrorism, and will contribute to the international community’s fight against terrorism.

   (4) I would like to ask for your support in (i) collecting information on facts of the situation, (ii) cooperation towards early release of the Japanese individuals and others.

   (5) Our commitment to make further contribution to the peace and stability of the region, in collaboration with the international community, will not change. I would like to continue working closely together.

2. In response, the heads of each State showed understanding towards Japan’s basic position, and showed their positions that they will not spare any effort in cooperating towards early resolution of this incident.