(Unofficial translation of Japanese press release)

1. H.E. Mr. Hirofumi Nakasone, Minister for Foreign Affairs, held talks with H.E. Mr. Nasser Judeh, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, who was visiting Japan accompanying H.M. King Abdullah II, for about 30 minutes from 3:30 p.m. on April 13 (JST). (H.E. Ms. Suhair Al-Ali, Minister of Planning and International Cooperation and H.E. Mr. Masahiko Shibayama, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs and others were also attended)

2. Foreign Minister Judeh stated that economic prosperity and political stability of the Middle East are complementary to each other, thus, without achieving peace, economic prosperity in the Middle East cannot be reached; toward realization of the peace, this year will be the most important year, in particular, as Obama administration of the United States has been launching a policy of using dialogue.

In response, Foreign Minister Nakasone appreciated the various roles Jordan plays from a realistic viewpoint towards the stability of the Middle East region; stated that towards the realization of the two-state solution, Japan, along with Jordan, would like to encourage the new administration of Israel to commit to the peace process and support President Abbas of the Palestinian Authority; also appreciated Jordan’s cooperation thus far in the initiative of “the Corridor of Peace and Prosperity” and requested continuous support.

3. With regard to the bilateral relations, Foreign Minister Judeh expressed appreciation for Japan’s assistance and requested for the continuing cooperation from Japan in light of domestic challenges that Jordan faces, in particular, recent difficult economic situation.

In response, Foreign Minister Nakasone stated though Japan is also experiencing economic difficulties, on the basis of Jordan’s importance to the stability in the Middle East region, Japan would like to continue support Jordan as much as possible; also explained Japan’s stance on considering economic assistance to Jordan for the future.