Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Japanese Foreign Minister IWAYA Takeshi spoke with his Lebanese counterpart Abdallah BouHabib on Tuesday and expressed serious concern over the situation in Lebanon.

Iwaya stated that Japan is calling for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah and condemns all threats to the safety and security of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

He said all parties should exercise maximum restraint and make sincere efforts to realize a diplomatic settlement. He also asked that Lebanon cooperate in protecting Japanese nationals.

Iwaya noted that Japan has decided to extend an Emergency Grant of $10 million to Syria, which has witnessed an influx of displaced people from Lebanon due to its deteriorating humanitarian situation.

That aid complements the Emergency Grant of $10 million to Lebanon that was announced on October 21, which will be used to provide immediate relief and support for the most vulnerable populations in Lebanon.

Foreign Minister BouHabib expressed gratitude for Japan’s assistance and emphasized that Lebanon highly values its cooperation with Japan. He also provided an update on the current situation on the ground and Lebanon’s diplomatic efforts.

The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to working together on matters concerning the Middle East and their shared goal of achieving lasting peace in the region.