Japan-Iran Relations
Japan-Iran Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
August 2, 2018
On August 2, commencing at 1 p.m. (12 p.m. on August 2, local time) for approximately 60 minutes, Mr. Taro Kano, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who is visiting Singapore to attend Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-related Foreign Ministers’ Meetings, held a Japan-Iran Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in a working lunch format with H.E. Dr. Mohammad Javad Zarif, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The overview of the meeting is as follows.
- At the beginning, Minister Kono welcomed Iran’s continuous implementation of the nuclear deal even after the withdrawal by the U.S., and explained that Japan continues to support the nuclear deal, which contributes to the strengthening of the international nonproliferation regime and the stability of the Middle East. He also expressed the view that the actions by and role of Iran are important in terms of realizing regional stability. Minister Zarif explained Iran’s position on the nuclear deal.
- The two ministers also exchanged views on the North Korea issue. Minister Kono explained that it would be important for the international community to continue to cooperate closely, and he also requested understanding and cooperation towards an early resolution of the abductions issue. In addition, the two ministers also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East, including Syria, Yemen and the Gulf.
- Furthermore, Minister Kono noted that the next year marks the 90th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Iran, and stated that he intends to make it a year for promoting the two countries’ traditionally amicable relationship, which has been developed over the past 90 years. In response, Minister Zarif expressed his agreement.