Japan-Saudi Arabia Relations
Japan-Saudi Arabia Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
October 31, 2026
On October 31, commencing at 12:15 p.m. local time (November 1 at 1:15 a.m. Japan time) for 30 minutes, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a meeting with H.H. Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
- At the outset, Minister MOTEGI, stating that Japan attaches importance to cooperation with Saudi Arabia, a cornerstone of the region, expressed that he finds it encouraging that close communication has been continued between the two countries.
- While conveying his sympathy once again regarding the expanding damage in Saudi Arabia caused by the Houthi attacks, Minister MOTEGI expressed his respect for Saudi Arabia's tireless efforts toward stabilizing the situation in Yemen. He also stated that Japan is deeply concerned about the escalation of fighting and the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Yemen, and will continue to make diplomatic efforts in cooperation with the international community to ensure that the Houthis return to the UN-led political process as soon as possible.
- Furthermore, regarding the situation surrounding Iran, Minister MOTEGI explained that Japan will continue working closely with the international community, including Saudi Arabia, to resolve the situation, including restoring free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
- In addition, Minister MOTEGI explained the progress of a comprehensive cooperation plan currently being formulated by Japan to strengthen the economic and energy resilience of the GCC countries.
- In response, Minister Faisal explained Saudi Arabia's latest response to the situation surrounding Yemen as well as the outlook for the situation surrounding Iran, including the talks between the United States and Iran. Furthermore, he stated that Saudi Arabia would like to work closely with Japan to strengthen the economic and energy resilience of the GCC countries.
- Both Ministers concurred to continue working closely together toward ensuring medium- to long-term peace and stability in the Middle East as a whole.