Japan-Jordan Summit Meeting (Summary)

On December 2, commencing at 0:30 p.m. local time (5:30 p.m. on the same day Japan time) for approximately 60 minutes, Mr. KISHIDA Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan, who is visiting Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to attend COP28 “United Nations World Climate Action Summit,” held a working lunch with His Majesty King Abdullah II Ibn Al Hussein, King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. The overview is as follows.

1. With regard to the situation on the Gaza Strip, Prime Minister Kishida stated that while Japan had welcomed the pause in fighting, the release of hostages and the increased delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, it is regrettable that the fighting has resumed and that it is important to return to the agreement and to calm down the situation as soon as possible. He also stated that all parties must comply with international law, including international humanitarian law, and that during actual military operations all possible measures need to be taken in order to prevent the damage on civilians.

2. In response, His Majesty King Abdullah expressed appreciation for various assistance from Japan and explained the latest situation on the ground and Jordan’s diplomatic efforts and humanitarian response with regard to the current situation, and stated that he shared Prime Minister Kishida's concern about the issue.

3. Prime Minister Kishida stated that based on the needs of Jordan, which is in a severe economic and financial situation affected by the recent situation in the Gaza Strip and other factors, Japan will make preparations to provide financial assistance of approximately US$100 million for the year 2024 while confirming Jordan’s reforms in economic and fiscal management. In response, His Majesty King Abdullah expressed his appreciation for Japan’s assistance.

4. In addition, the two leaders exchanged views on bilateral relations and agreed to further develop bilateral cooperation in various areas, including the economy and security.

5. The two leaders confirmed that the two countries will continue to work together to improve the humanitarian conditions and calm down the situation as soon as possible.