Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Japan-Jordan Summit Meeting

Prime Minister Taro Aso held talks with His Majesty King Abdullah II Ibn Al Hussein, King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, at the Prime Minister's Office.

Prime Minister Aso said, "This year marks the 10th anniversary of H.M. Abdullah's ascension to the throne. For our side, it is a milestone year in many ways, as it marks the 20th anniversary of the enthronement of His Majesty the Emperor, the 50th anniversary of the marriage of Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress, and the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Jordan. I extend my sincere welcome to Your Majesty's visit to Japan, which is made in this commemorative year.

"Japan highly regards Jordan for its constructive role as the stabilizing force within the region in relation to such issues as Iraq and peace in the Middle East. I believe Japan and Jordan maintain remarkably good relations. It is my intention to continue strengthening our relations in a wide range of areas."

In response, H.M. King Abdullah said, "This year is a landmark year in a number of ways for both Japan and Jordan. I am extremely proud that we further deepen our very close relations in such a year. I greatly appreciate Japan's role in the Middle East, and would like to express my utmost gratitude for the role that Japan has played in history, and the role it is playing for the stability of the Middle East."

At the meeting, the two leaders expressed their gratitude toward and expectations of each other on economic cooperation for peace and stability in the Middle East, the memorandum of cooperation in the area of nuclear energy, and the large-scale water resource project, among other matters. They furthermore concurred on the importance of supporting peacemaking efforts, based on the Arab Peace Initiative and in cooperation with the United States.

Related Link

• Japan-Jordan Relations (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)