Press Releases
Japan-Palestine Foreign Ministers’ Telephone Meeting
September 19, 2025
On September 19, commencing at 4:50 p.m. (Japan time) for approximately 25 minutes, Mr. IWAYA Takeshi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a telephone meeting with H.E. Dr. Varsen Aghabekian, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Palestine. The overview is as follows;
- Minister IWAYA emphasized Japan’s unwavering support for a two-state solution. He stated that Japan views with a profound sense of urgency the deteriorating situation in Gaza and West Bank, including the Israeli forces’ expanding ground operations in the Gaza city, which could undermine the very foundation of a two-state solution. He further stressed the importance of improving the humanitarian situation in Gaza and achieving a ceasefire and the release of hostages.
- Minister IWAYA commended the Palestinian Authority's (PA) reform efforts and commitment to the peace process, emphasizing the importance of tangible achievements of the PA reforms. He stated that Japan would proactively support Palestine’s state-building efforts by making the most of Japan’s initiatives, such as the Conference on cooperation among East Asian countries for Palestinian Development (CEAPAD), while working closely with relevant countries and organizations.
- In response, Minister Aghabekian expressed her appreciation for Japan's principled position on the situation in the Middle East and for Japan’s long-standing support to stand by Palestine. She also outlined the situation surrounding Palestine and the current PA reform efforts.
- The two sides concurred on working together towards advancing the Middle East peace process and realizing a two-state solution.