Arab News Japan

 TOKYO: Japan on Jan. 19 welcomed the presidential decree to hold a series of elections in Palestine as it believes the realization of these elections will mark an important step towards establishing a future democratic and independent Palestinian state.

The Foreign Ministry in Tokyo said the positive engagement of all the concerned parties, including the Israeli government and Palestinian factions, is essential for the success of these elections.

“Japan strongly hopes that free, fair and inclusive elections will be held, including voting by Palestinian residents of the Gaza strip and East Jerusalem,” the Ministry said in a statement.

Japan continues to support Palestine, working together with the international community, to achieve its unity through these elections and to engage firmly in the realization of Middle East peace, the Ministry added.