Japan-France Summit Telephone Talk (Summary)

[Provisional translation]

On October 27, commencing at 6:30 p.m. for approximately 35 minutes, Mr. KISHIDA Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan, held a telephone talk with H.E. Mr. Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, to discuss mainly the situation in the Middle East. The overview is as follows.

1. At the outset, Prime Minister Kishida expressed his heartfelt condolences to the people of France who fell victim to the terror attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian militants, and the victim of the terror attack that took place at a high school in northern France, as well as to those involved and the bereaved families. President Macron expressed his appreciation.
2. Prime Minister Kishida stated that Japan has unequivocally condemned the terror attacks and that Israel has the right to protect itself and its nationals in accordance with international law, and called for the immediate release of many hostages, including French nationals, and securing safety of civilians; all the parties to act based on international law; and calming down the situation as soon as possible. Prime Minister Kishida also expressed his concern about the humanitarian situation in the Gaza, and explained that Japan would provide Emergency Grant Aid of 10 million US dollars through international organizations, and that Japan would consider further assistance being consistent with need in the field with a sense of urgency. In response, President Macron explained France’s diplomatic and other efforts, such as his visit to the Middle East, including Israel. The two leaders concurred that the security of the respective nationals is a top priority and that they would continue to work together.
3. The two leaders concurred to continue to coordinate on various issues of the international community, including the situation in the Middle East, both bilaterally and among the G7 leaders.