Diana Farah Dubai

Japan and the UAE are effective and responsible players for the “peace, stability and prosperity of the region and the world,” Japan’s consul-general in Dubai told Arab News.

Akima Umezawa said given the current tensions in the Middle East, the upcoming meeting of both countries’ leaders will “strengthen cordial relations but also contribute to the prevention of further escalation in the region.”

He added that Prime Minister Abe Shinzo’s visit to the UAE will “enhance stable energy supplies and ensure safe navigation in the region by exchanging opinions and reconfirming the robust cooperation between Japan and not only the UAE, but also Saudi Arabia and Oman.”

Japan and the UAE are cooperating under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Initiative, Umezawa said.

The initiative was agreed upon in 2018 by Abe and Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan. The sectors covered include culture, defense, technology and security.

Umezawa expressed hope that the world will “recognize the beautiful collaboration between Japan and the UAE” through events such as this year’s Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, and Dubai Expo.

Abe visited Saudi Arabia on Saturday, and was received by King Salman in Riyadh. The prime minister toured the historical site of AlUla, where he met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

During his time in the UAE, Abe intends to discuss plans to send Self-Defense Forces personnel to the region, local media reported.