Riyadh, 8 September 2023(TDI): The First Japan-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, held on September 7, was marked by productive discussions and the reaffirmation of a strong commitment to enhancing the partnership between Japan and the GCC.
The meeting, which took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, saw the participation of Hayashi Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, and GCC Foreign Ministers, along with other dignitaries.
The meeting lasted for approximately 130 minutes, during which various important topics were addressed.
Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Oman, presiding over the GCC Presidency this year, extended a warm welcome to Minister Hayashi and expressed the GCC’s commitment to strengthening its relations with Japan in various areas.
Minister Al Busaidi emphasized the importance of this meeting in advancing bilateral cooperation.
Minister Hayashi acknowledged the growing significance of GCC member states on the international stage and expressed Japan’s commitment to collaboration with the GCC to address global challenges.
He stressed Japan’s determination to uphold the international order based on the rule of law and highlighted the immense potential for mutual benefit by combining the strengths of both the GCC and Japan.
The GCC Ministers welcomed the regular convening of the Japan-GCC Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and the formulation of the “Japan-GCC Action Plan 2024-2028.”
They expressed their hopes for enhanced cooperation across various fields using the Action Plan as a roadmap.
Minister Hayashi expressed Japan’s support for GCC efforts in stabilizing the global crude oil market and advancing socio-economic reforms.
Moreover, Minister Hayashi announced the resumption of negotiations for a Japan-GCC Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by the end of 2024, a significant achievement following Prime Minister Kishida’s visit to Saudi Arabia in July.
He expressed optimism about constructive discussions going forward.
Addressing the issue of the recent discharge of ALPS-treated water, Minister Hayashi referred to the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) assessment in its Comprehensive Report. However, the GCC Ministers expressed their complete confidence in Japan’s commitment to adhering to international standards.
The Ministers engaged in a candid exchange of views on various global issues, including the situation in the Middle East, Ukraine, and East Asia.
Read more: GCC Secretary General Meets Japanese Official
The GCC Ministers highlighted their peaceful efforts, such as dialogue, to address challenges in the Middle East and expressed their expectations for Japan’s active role in stabilizing the region.
Minister Hayashi elaborated on Japan’s vision for a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP),” emphasizing cooperation over confrontation.
He stressed the importance of maintaining a free and open international order based on the rule of law and expressed his commitment to working with the GCC to achieve this goal.
In closing remarks, Minister Hayashi expressed gratitude to the GCC Ministers and the GCC Secretary General for their warm hospitality.
Both sides affirmed their commitment to continued cooperation on regional and international matters, as well as the further development of relations between Japan and the GCC, in line with the Action Plan.
){kind=link}