Press Releases
Japan–Saudi Arabia Foreign Ministers’ Telephone Call
March 16, 2026
On March 16, commencing at 9:00 p.m. for approximately 15 minutes, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a telephone call with H.H. Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The overview is as follows:
- At the outset, Minister MOTEGI expressed his grave concern over the current deterioration of the situation in the Middle East, and conveyed his concern and sympathy regarding attacks by Iran that have extended to civilian facilities and energy-related facilities in neighboring countries, including Saudi Arabia, as well as to civilian vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters.
- In addition, Minister MOTEGI stated that Japan has strongly urged Iran to cease actions that destabilize the region, including the development of nuclear weapons and attacks on neighboring countries. Minister MOTEGI also emphasized that Japan will continue to make every diplomatic effort toward the early de-escalation of the situation.
- Furthermore, Minister MOTEGI expressed Japan’s desire to work closely together for the stable supply of crude oil, secure safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, and the peace and stability in the Middle East region, including energy security. Minister MOTEGI also expressed appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s support in ensuring the safety of Japanese nationals and assisting their departure, and requested continued cooperation.
- In response, Minister Faisal stressed the importance of resolving issues through dialogue and diplomacy, and stated that Saudi Arabia would like to continue cooperating with Japan for the early de-escalation of the situation and for peace and stability in the region. He also stated that Saudi Arabia would continue to cooperate with Japan for the stable supply of crude oil, ensuring the safety of Japanese nationals and supporting them for their departure.