TOKYO: Japanese Foreign Minister HAYASHI Yoshimasa met with his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir Abdollahian on Monday and had what Japan’s Foreign Ministry called a “candid dialogue.”

In the 90-minute meeting, Hayashi said he wished to have candid talks with Iran and noted that Japan has continued cooperation in fields such as medical care, the environment and disaster risk reduction. As a long-time friend, Hayashi said he would like this cooperation to continue.

In response, Abdullahian said that Iran would like to continue and strengthen such a dialogue and maintain cooperation with Japan.

The two ministers exchanged views on the Iran nuclear deal. Hayashi stated that, as a supporter of the Iran nuclear deal, Japan is seriously concerned about the expansion of Iran’s nuclear-related activities, and expressed its full and unconditional cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Hayashi called for a constructive response from Iran.

Abdullahian stated that Iran is seeking to revive the Iran nuclear agreement through negotiations. He added that he is grateful for Japan’s diplomatic efforts and that he hopes to continue to communicate on the issue.

Hayashi reiterated Japan’s position on Russia’s “aggression” against Ukraine and asked Iran for a constructive response. 

The two ministers also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East, and said they will continue to maintain close communication.