New-Year Meeting with Ambassadors of the Middle East Countries in Japan to Celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Middle East Institute of Japan

 
On February 1, 2023, Prime Minister Kishida attended a new-year meeting with ambassadors of the Middle East countries in Japan to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the Middle East Institute of Japan held in Tokyo.
 
Prime Minister Kishida said in his address,
 
“Thank you for the kind introduction. I am KISHIDA Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan. Today I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to Chairman Sasaki of the Middle East Institute of Japan (MEIJ) and all of you present here for inviting me to this reception. I also offer my heartfelt congratulations on the 60th anniversary of the institute.
 
The Middle East is an important region essential for Japan’s prosperity and development. For the past 60 years since its founding, the MEIJ has been engaged in studies, researches, and seminars, among other means, while closely connecting the Middle East with the people of Japan.
 
The situation surrounding the Middle East and the world is rapidly changing now. Especially in recent days, people in the Middle Eastern region are suffering from rising food prices and other problems, following Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Moscow’s invasion tramples on the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and is absolutely unacceptable.
 
At this historical juncture, this year will be a year when Japan will lead the international community. Our country will be a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for two years from the beginning of this year to the end of next year.
 
In addition, Japan will play a leading role in discussions on global issues of great concern to countries in the Middle East, such as food and energy security as well as nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, in the G7 Hiroshima Summit slated for this May.
 
Needless to say, Middle Eastern countries are the most important partners in energy supply for Japan. Our country will also advance cooperation in industrial diversification in these countries and new energy source materials including hydrogen and ammonia, thereby further developing friendly relations between the region and Japan.
 
Last but not least, think-tanks which can produce high-quality and independent analyses and assessments like the MEIJ are extremely precious assets not only for Japan’s diplomacy, but also for all the people concerned and active in the region.
 
I hope that everyone present here will continue to fully leverage the MEIJ and actively promote its activities.
 
Let me conclude my remarks by extending my best wishes for your continued health and success and above all, further development of the MEIJ. Thank you.”