Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Japanese Foreign Minister KAMIKAWA Yoko attended the Cairo Summit for Peace on Friday and emphasized the urgent need for both political and humanitarian solutions to the situation in Gaza and the Palestinians’ conflict with Israel.

The meeting was attended by government heads, ministers and other representatives of countries that included Arab States, European and North America countries, as well as international organizations such as the United Nations.

Kamikawa stressed that the window of opportunity for Middle East Peace should not be shut due to the current situation and stated that Japan’s position to support a “two-state solution” is unwavering. 

She unequivocally condemned the terror attacks by Hamas and others and stated that Japan has consistently take a position that prioritizes the following: the immediate release of hostages and securing safety for civilians; all parties to act based on international law; a quick reduction of tension; doubling diplomatic efforts to prevent the instability from spilling over in the region. 

Kamikawa said the most imminent challenge is to minimize the deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and that assistance to the people in the Gaza Strip should be delivered as early as possible. She also said the parties should help realize the evacuation of foreign citizens who still remain in the Gaza Strip. 

Minister Kamikawa explained that Japan has already announced emergency humanitarian assistance worth $10 million and will consider further assistance based on the needs on the ground. 

The Foreign Minister took the opportunity to exchange views with President El-Sisi of Egypt, President Abbas of Palestine, Foreign Secretary Cleverly of the UK, Foreign Minister Colonna of France, Foreign Minister Joly of Canada, Foreign Minister Eide of Norway, and Foreign Minister Vieira of Brazil.