Japan-Iran Relations

On September 22, from 9:15 a.m. (NY time) for approximately 45 minutes, Mr. Taro Kono, Minister for Foreign Affairs held a Foreign Ministers’ Meeting 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.

1. At the beginning of the meeting, Minister Kono stated that he is happy to meet Minister Zarif soon after their recent telephone conversations, and congratulated him once again on his reappointment as Foreign Minister. Furthermore, Minister Kono expressed his hope that progress would be made in building constructive relationship with the international community under President Rouhani’s approach based on the engagement with international cooperation. Minister Zarif once again responded with congratulations to Minister Kono on his appointment as Foreign Minister as well.
2. Regarding the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), Minister Kono stated that Japan supports the agreement, and that he hopes Iran’s continuous compliance. He also noted that it is essentially important for all parties to implement the agreement. Minister Zarif responded that Iran is in compliance with the nuclear agreement with referring to the Ministerial Meeting of Iran and the EU3+3 on the nuclear agreement held in New York on September 20.
3. With regard to the issues of North Korea, Minister Kono stated that North Korea has repeatedly conducted nuclear tests and ballistic missile launches, and that Japan intends to put pressure on North Korea in cooperation with Iran. Furthermore, Minister Kono noted that the nuclear tests and ballistic missile launches by North Korea are unacceptable to the international community, and that Japan will work with relevant countries including Iran in order for the international community to act in close unity and put pressure. Minister Zarif responded that Iran is opposed to nuclear weapons and the development of nuclear weapons including nuclear testing.
4. Regarding the situation in the Middle East, Minister Kono touched upon his recent visit to various countries in the Middle East. He stated that Japan is committed to the stability of the Middle East region, and that Iran’s constructive role and its friendly relations with the leading countries in the region including Saudi Arabia are critical for peace and stability. In response, Minister Zarif welcomed the efforts of Japan.