November 22, 2012

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs on the Situation in the Gaza Strip

1. The Government of Japan welcomes that Israel and the Palestinian armed groups have reached the agreement on a ceasefire and strongly hopes that it will be a lasting one. Japan has been working to realize the ceasefire and highly appreciates the mediation efforts by Egypt, the United States of America and other relevant countries and organizations.

2. Japan continues to support the efforts of the international community toward the stabilization of the Gaza Strip and progress of the Middle East Peace Process, and provides its utmost cooperation.

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* The foregoing is a provisional translation. The date indicated above denotes the date of issue of the original version in Japanese.

* For inquiries, contact the First Middle East Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Tel. 5501-8000)(ext. 2765).