Press Releases
The First Strategic Dialogue between the Foreign Ministers of Japan and Bahrain
On September 9, commencing at 11:30 a.m. for approximately an hour and 30 minutes, Mr. IWAYA Takeshi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, signed the Joint Declaration on the Establishment of the Strategic Dialogue of Foreign Mnisters, and based on this Declaration, held the first Japan-Bahrain Strategic Dialogue and Working Lunch with H.E. Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al-Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain, who is visiting Japan.
1. Bilateral Relations
Minister IWAYA pointed out that both countries are maritime nations and important partners in promoting principles such as the rule of law, freedom of navigation, and the peaceful resolution of disputes. He also welcomed the fact that the cooperation between the two countries has expanded beyond the energy sector into a wide range of areas, including politics and security, environment, information and communication technology, and space.
Minister Zayani, in response, expressed his desire to further enhance bilateral cooperation under the newly established Strategic Dialogue and stated that Bahrain intends to strengthen its cooperation with Japan across all fields.
The two ministers confirmed their cooperation towards the early conclusion of the Japan-GCC EPA negotiations, which was resumed last December.
2. Regional and International Situation
The two ministers exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East, including the situation in Israel and Iran, Gaza, the Red Sea, and the situation in the Indo-Pacific. Regarding the situation surrounding Iran, the two ministers reaffirmed the importance of resolving the Iranian nuclear issue through talks. Both sides also concurred to work closely together in dealing with international situations.