[Provisional Translation]
(Reporter)
I am Kojima from the coordinating agency, NHK. I would like to ask about the situation in the Middle East. While there have been rapid developments, it has been announced that the United States and Iran have reached agreement on signing a memorandum aimed at ending hostilities. The Japanese Government has been making diplomatic efforts toward de-escalation. How do you assess this latest development between Iran and the United States? As you are also scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Meloni later today, do you expect this issue to be discussed? In addition, should a ceasefire actually take hold, what would be the Government's response going forward, including the possibility of deploying the Self-Defense Forces?
(Prime Minister Takaichi)
It has been announced that both the United States and Iran have reached agreement on a memorandum concerning the cessation of hostilities and related matters.
Japan has consistently maintained that the most important priority is to achieve a genuine and swift de-escalation of the situation. We have also been determined to secure free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz as early as possible. Based on these considerations, Japan has continued to make active diplomatic efforts.
From this perspective, I welcome the agreement on the memorandum as a major step towards resolving this situation. What is important now is that the memorandum be formally signed, which is expected to take place this Friday local time, and that its provisions be implemented faithfully and effectively.
I would like to express my sincere respect to all those involved in the negotiations, as well as to the countries that have played a mediating role.
Going forward, it is essential that the memorandum be implemented steadily and that free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz be effectively secured. It is also important that a final agreement on Iran's nuclear issue and other related matters be reached as soon as possible.
As the only country to have suffered atomic bombings during war, Japan opposes Iran's nuclear development. In my meeting yesterday with Prime Minister Starmer of the United Kingdom, we confirmed that Japan and the United Kingdom would work closely together toward bringing the situation surrounding Iran to a close. Later today, I will hold a summit meeting with Prime Minister Meloni of Italy, and I intend to discuss this important issue with her as well.
The G7 Evian Summit begins this evening. In that context, I will engage in thorough discussions with fellow leaders on realizing peace and stability throughout the Middle East, including ensuring free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
(Reporter)
In this regard, France, the United Kingdom, Germany and Italy have issued a joint statement on this matter. Could you tell us your thoughts on Japan’s involvement in that initiative?
(Prime Minister Takaichi)
Late last night, we received a request for Japan to join the joint statement issued by the four countries. Japan intends to join this statement.