Japan-Iran Relations

On November 23, during his visit to Rome to attend the Fourth Mediterranean Dialogue, Mr. Taro Kono, Minister for Foreign Affairs, held a Japan-Iran Foreign Ministers' Meeting in a working lunch format from 1 p.m. (local time; 9 p.m. on the same day, Japan time) for approximately 60 minutes 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. Minister Kono welcomed Iran's continuous implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and explained that Japan continues to support the JCPOA. In response, Minister Zarif explained Iran's position on the JCPOA and his recognition of the situation inside and outside the country surrounding JCPOA. 
2. With regard to the bilateral relationship, the two foreign ministers shared the view that they will cooperate to further advance the bilateral relationship toward the 90th anniversary of the establishment of Japan-Iran diplomatic relations next year. 
3. Minister Kono pointed out that Iran's positive actions are essential to regional stability. The two foreign ministers also exchanged views on the Middle East situation, including Yemen and Syria, and on the North Korea situation.