Japan-Iran Relations

On February 15, commencing at 10:00 a.m. (local time; same day, 6:00 p.m. JST) for approximately 35 minutes, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who is visiting Munich to attend the Munich Security Conference, held a 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. Minister Motegi stated that the Government of Japan will continue to make persistent diplomatic efforts toward easing tensions and stabilizing the situation in the Middle East, noting concerns over the ongoing heightened tensions in the region. Minister Motegi urged Iran to exercise self-restraint from actions that would heighten tensions in the region and to influence relevant forces to this end. In response, Minister Zarif stated that Iran does not seek further tensions and highly appreciates Japan’s diplomatic efforts. Minister Zarif also stated that he intends to continue to coordinate closely with Japan.
2. Based on the position of Japan consistently supporting the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), Minister Motegi once again urged Iran to comply with the JCPOA and cooperate fully with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). In addition, Minister Motegi requested Iran to fulfill a constructive role for regional peace and stability, noting that Iran’s recent launch of a satellite launch vehicle (SLV) does not contribute toward easing tensions in the region. Furthermore, Minister Motegi once again explained the information gathering activities by the Self-Defense Forces for ensuring the safety of Japan-related vessels, and they confirmed that there was no change in Iran’s position since the Japan-Iran Summit meeting in December 2019.
3. The two ministers also exchanged views regarding bilateral relations and decided to continue close communication.