[Provisional Translation]

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe hosted an Iftar with the Islamic Diplomatic Corps in Japan at the Prime Minister’s Office.

In his opening address, the Prime Minister said,

“Today I am delighted to invite to this venue, H.E. Mr. Waleed Siam, Ambassador of the Permanent General Mission of Palestine to Japan, and all the members of the Islamic Diplomatic Corps in Japan, as well as all the members of parliamentarians’ league and related organizations who have devoted themselves to exchange with Islamic countries. I am also honored to host this Iftar, the meal that is eaten after sunset during Ramadan.

I would like to begin by expressing my heartfelt condolences to the victims of the recent acts of terrorism in Egypt, Kuwait, Tunisia, France, and Somalia.

Since I assumed the office of Prime Minister, I have had the opportunity to experience Islamic culture in almost 20 countries that I have visited, including those in the Middle East, through events such as tours of observation and receptions.

In Egypt, which I visited this January, I used the Islamic adage of ‘Khair Al-Umuri Ausatoha’ or ‘the best way is in the middle,’ as the theme of my speech. This spirit of Islam, which avoids extreme positions and aims for harmony with those with different views, resonates with the Japanese spirit of aiming for coexistence with others through the spirit of ‘Wa’ or harmony.  

Today, in this fast-breaking meal, the Embassies of Islamic countries have kindly provided many dishes. I would like to once again offer my sincere gratitude to you all. As well as talking about our respective cultures while enjoying this Iftar together, I would like this evening to be an opportunity to wish for the peace and prosperity of Japan, the Islamic world, and the entire world.”