Press Releases
Japan-United Arab Emirates Foreign Ministers’ Telephone Call
March 16, 2026
On March 16, commencing at 9:40 p.m. for approximately 15 minutes, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a telephone call with H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The overview is as follows:
- During the telephone call, 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 the UAE who is one of the countries most affected by the attacks by Iran.
- 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, and to secure the safety of the Strait of Hormuz. Minister MOTEGI also emphasized that Japan will continue to make every diplomatic effort toward the early de-escalation of the situation.
- Furthermore, Minister MOTEGI called for the UAE’s cooperation in ensuring the stable supply of crude oil and expressed Japan’s desire to work closely together to secure safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, as well as for the peace and stability in the Middle East region, including energy security. Minister MOTEGI also expressed appreciation for the UAE’s support for the assistance for departure of Japanese nationals and requested continued cooperation.
- In response, Minister Abdullah stressed the importance of resolving issues through dialogue, and stated that the UAE would like to continue cooperating with Japan for the early de-escalation of the situation. He also stated that the UAE 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.
- Both Ministers also welcomed the conclusion of the negotiations for Japan-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), and concurred on enhancing the bilateral cooperation in a wide range of areas.