Khaldon Azhari Tokyo

Japan’s diplomatic role in the Middle East is limited, but Prime Minister Shinzo Abe frequent trips to the region will "send a positive message to the world about Japan’s continued commitment to the peace and stability of the region," Japan’s former vice foreign minister Akitaka SAIKI told Arab News.

Commenting on the current visit of PM Abe to Saudi Arabia, Saiki said that peace and stability in the Middle East is crucially important to the world’s economy.

Observers say Saiki’s remarks echo similar views expressed by Japanese leaders of the political and economic circles, who realize that Japan needs to be more visible in the region.

This is clear by the “bold” decision taken by Abe to go ahead with his Middle East tour, which also includes the UAE and Oman, despite the recent military tension surrounding Iran and calls from some sources in the government to postpone the trip.