Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Japanese Foreign Minister IWAYA Takeshi reiterated that Japan, unlike France, needs additional time to recognize Palestine as a state but confirmed its commitment to a two-state solution.

“As you know, our country has consistently supported a two-state solution, and there has been no change in this position,” Iwaya stated during a press conference on Tuesday. “We understand the aspirations of the Palestinian people for an independent state and have backed their efforts to achieve this goal.”

“We will continue to thoroughly assess the suitable timing and measures for recognizing Palestine as a state.”

Iwaya stated that Japan is closely monitoring developments and international discussions regarding Palestine, including the matter of state recognition; however, Japan often refrains from committing to a clear timetable for such recognition.

Iwaya highlighted Japan’s “unique initiative to support Palestine” during the ministerial meeting for the East Asia Cooperation Promotion Conference for Palestinian Development (CEPAD) held on July 11. He mentioned that the meeting adopted an action plan focused on humanitarian assistance, recovery and reconstruction support, and reform assistance for the Palestinian Authority. This active support serves as a beacon of hope for the future of Palestine.

“We are dedicated to diligently supporting the efforts of the Palestinian people and will continue to follow up on the discussed initiatives,” Iwaya assured.