Japan FM: GCC States Strategic Partners In Energy Security, Stability

(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) KUWAIT, Sept 1 (KUNA) -- Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya affirmed on Monday that his country takes pride in its strategic partnership with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), stressing the importance of strengthening cooperation across many fields to contribute significantly to regional and international security and stability.
In a speech during the second joint ministerial meeting of the GCC-Japan Strategic Dialogue, Minister Iwaya emphasized Japan attaches great importance to deepening cooperation with GCC states in humanitarian, developmental, political, and security areas of vital mutual concern.
The minister described GCC countries as essential partners for Japan in energy security, noting they supply over 90 percent of Japan's crude oil needs, while praising their commitment to stable supplies and leadership in global energy market stability.
Iwaya expressed Japan's interest in cooperating with GCC members on green transition and clean energy, including hydrogen and ammonia, to help position the Middle East as a major hub for clean energy resources.
He added that dialogue between the two sides also covers advanced technology, education, culture, and agriculture, aligning with global sustainable development goals and promoting mutual understanding.
The minister highlighted the outcomes of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development, stressing Japan's keenness to cooperate with Indian Ocean and Middle Eastern states to boost regional integration and industrial growth in Africa.
Iwaya also praised GCC participation in Expo Osaka 2025, hosted in Japan, saying international exhibitions reflect deep relations and mutual cooperation while opening broader opportunities for cultural and knowledge exchange. (pickup previous)
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