Section 6

The Middle East and

North Africa

(led by Saudi Arabia, etc., at the request of the

1 Overview
Yemeni Government). Moreover, in addition to
The Middle East and North Africa (hereinafter, the Middle East peace process, which has been
“the Middle East”) are situated in a geopolitically a historical issue since the founding of Israel in
important location at the intersection of Europe, 1948, the risk of the spread of violent extremism,
sub-Saharan Africa, Central Asia, and South Asia. as represented by the“Islamic State in Iraq and
The Middle East accounts for approximately 50% the Levant (ISIL),” still remains in some areas.
of the world’s oil production and for approxi- Resolving these problems and achieving peace
mately 50% of the world’s natural gas reserves. In and stability in the Middle East is of great impor-
addition to being an important energy-supplying tance for the peace and stability of the world as a
region for the world, the Middle East, in particular whole, including Japan.
the Gulf countries, has been promoting the diver- Japan imports approximately 90% of its crude oil
sification of each of the local economies against from the Middle East, and it is extremely important
a backdrop of a high population growth rate in for Japan’s peace and prosperity to promote peace
recent years (17.3% in the last 10 years), and has and stability in the Middle East and to maintain
high potential as a market. and develop good relations with countries in the
At the same time, various conflicts and dis- region. From this point of view, Japan in recent
putes have historically existed in the Middle East, years has been striving to strengthen relations
and even now it faces a number of destabilizing with Middle Eastern countries in a wide range of
factors and challenges. In addition to growing fields, including not just the economy, but also in
regional tensions over Iran, political turmoil has politics, security, culture and people-to-people
continued in various regions since the “Arab exchanges. Japan made active diplomatic efforts
Spring” that began in 2011. Fighting has con- in 2019 as tensions in the Middle East increased,
tinued in Syria, giving rise to a large number of including Prime Minister Abe’s visit to Iran in June
refugees and internally displaced persons, which and Iranian President Rouhani’s visit to Japan
has had a great impact on the stability of the in December. In addition, in order to ensure
entire region, including neighboring countries. In safety of navigation for Japan-related vessels, in
Yemen as well, severe security and humanitar- December the Government of Japan decided on a
ian conditions continue as the Houthis clash with policy of utilizing the Self-Defense Forces’ assets
the Yemeni Government and the Arab Coalition to strengthen its information gathering posture

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 The Middle East and North Africa Section 6

in addition to further diplomatic efforts to ease stabilize the situation in the Middle East, lever-
regional tensions and stabilize the situation, and aging its position as an ally with the U.S., and,
thoroughly undertake measures to ensure the at the same time, its positive and long-standing
safety of navigation. relationship with Iran.
Prime Minister Abe visited Iran in June and

Chapter 2
met with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyed Ali
2 Situation in Middle East Region
Khamenei and President Rouhani. It was the first
(1) Iran visit to Iran by a Japanese Prime Minister in 41
Iran is a major Shiite regional power with land years. There were positive comments toward
of approximately 4.4 times the size of Japan with a easing tensions from the two Iranian leaders.
population of about 82 million and is blessed with For example, President Rouhani stated that Iran
abundant natural resources. 2019 saw mounting did not want a war with the U.S. and would
tensions in the Middle East, including concerns not pursue possession of nuclear weapons, and
over the Iranian nuclear issue. Supreme Leader Khamenei stated that Iran bans
Regarding the Iranian nuclear issue, the U.S. the production, possession and use of nuclear
withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal (Joint weapons and that it opposes them.
Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)) in May of In August, Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif visited
2018, and then in May 2019, started an embargo Japan, paid a courtesy call to Prime Minister Abe,
of Iranian crude oil by not extending exemptions and held a Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. Japan once
on sanctions exceptionally granted to eight coun- again called for Iran to refrain from further mea-
tries and regions, including Japan. In the same sures that undermine the nuclear deal in addition
month, Iranian President Rouhani declared that to urging them to relieve tensions.
Iran was not able to obtain the profits in the At the UN General Assembly in September,
oil and financial sectors that would have been Japan held summit meetings and foreign ministers’
obtained by the nuclear deal, and stated that Iran meetings with Iran and with the U.S. respectively.
would remain in the nuclear deal but that Iran At the summit meeting with Iran, Prime Minister
would partially suspend fulfillment of its obliga- Abe, in addition to showing strong concern over
tions if the situation did not improve. Following the worsening situation in the Middle East, stated
this, since July, Iran has gradually taken steps in to President Rouhani that Iran should play a
five stages to suspend its obligations under the constructive role toward regional peace and sta-
nuclear deal, such as exceeding the upper limit bility. He also expressed concern over suspending
on low enriched uranium storage (300 kg) and implementation of the nuclear deal and requested
exceeding the upper limit on uranium enrichment
(3.67%) specified by the nuclear deal.
Additionally, there were several instances where
local tensions increased. In June two ships were
attacked, including a Japan-related vessel, and a
U.S. drone was shot down by Iran. In September
the U.S. condemned the attack on Saudi Arabia’s
oil facilities as an attack by Iran, and the UK,
France, and Germany also issued a statement
blaming Iran, but Iran denied its responsibility.
Amidst this situation, Japan continues per- Meeting between Prime Minister Abe and Supreme Leader
Khamenei (June 13, Tehran, Iran; Photo: Cabinet Public
sistent diplomatic efforts to alleviate tensions and Relations Office)

DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2020 143

 Chapter 2 Japan’s Foreign Policy that Takes a Panoramic Perspective of the World Map

The 90th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Diplomatic Relationship

Column between Japan and Iran

2019 marked the 90th anniversary of the establishment of the diplo-

matic relationship between Japan and Iran. Japan and Iran have been
engaged in exchanges through the Silk Road since more than 1,000 years
ago. For example, Shosoin of Horyu-ji Temple in Nara Prefecture holds
Persian crafts that are believed to have come through the Silk Road. Official
diplomatic relations were established in 1929 between the Government
of Japan and Persia, which is present-day Iran.
In 2019, there were frequent reciprocal visits by key officials, including
Prime Minister Abe’s visit to Iran in June and President Rouhani’s visit
to Japan in December. The two countries also held various anniversary
Logo for the 90th anniversary events throughout the year, during which they reaffirmed their traditional
of the establishment of the dip-
lomatic relationship between friendly relations.
Japan and Iran
In January, the 90th anniversary kicked off with a reception at the
Embassy of Japan in Iran, including a book donation ceremony and a
Japanese drum (wadaiko) concert.
In May, under the sponsorship of the Tokai-Iran Friendship
Association, two Iranian ceramic artists were invited to Gifu
Prefecture to participate in a seminar on the technique of luster-
ware, a form of ceramic art that had been lost in Iran but was
revived in Japan. The aim of this seminar was to bring this tech-
nique back to Iran. The pieces produced in this seminar are to
become permanent exhibits at the Reza Abbasi Museum in Tehran.
In October, a donation ceremony for these works was held there. Three lusterware ceramic works
donated to the Reza Abbasi Museum
A commemorative event was held in August. In this event, projec-
tion mapping movies representing the friendly relations between
Japan and Iran were screened at Golestan Palace, the site where
Japan’s first Minister Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Iran,
Kasama Akio, presented his credentials approximately 90 years
ago. Mr. Yamada Kenji, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign
Affairs, attended the event while Mr. Telebian, Deputy Minister
of Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization repre-
sented Iran at the event. Coinciding with this event, lectures and
Projection mapping event at Golestan
workshops on the technology and expression of projection map- Palace
ping were conducted by Japanese experts for university students
majoring in architecture and art at Shiraz University as well as universities in Tehran.
In addition, a number of commemorative events were held, based on applications from individuals
and private sector organizations. Through the 90th anniversary commemorative events, which represent
Japan and Iran’s rich history and culture, the public and private sectors of both countries came together
to celebrate the anniversary and looked back on their 90-year history.

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 The Middle East and North Africa Section 6

that Iran fulfill its responsibility as a coastal state (2) The Gulf States and Yemen
to ensure the safety of navigation of vessels. The The Gulf States1 are important partners for Japan
leaders and foreign ministers of the U.S. and Japan from the perspective of Japan’s energy security. In
agreed to continue cooperation to ease tensions recent years, the Gulf States have been working
and stabilize the situation in the Middle East. toward social and economic reforms, prioritizing

Chapter 2
In November, Iranian Vice-President for Legal issues such as industry diversification, human
Affairs Joneydi visited Japan on the occasion of resources development and departure from
the Ceremony of the Enthronement of His Majesty dependence on oil, and Japan has been cooperat-
the Emperor and paid a courtesy call to Prime ing and supporting the realization of these reforms
Minister Abe. in order to contribute to the long-term stability
In December, President Rouhani visited Japan in and prosperity of the Middle East. These efforts
return for Prime Minister Abe’s visit to Iran in June, include cooperation based on the “Japan-Saudi
which was the first visit to Japan by an Iranian Vision 2030,”which was formulated by Japan and
President in 19 years, and had a summit meeting Saudi Arabia as a compass for bilateral coopera-
with Prime Minister Abe. While Prime Minister Abe tion modeled after the“Saudi Vision 2030,”Saudi
called for Iran to play a constructive role for the Arabia’s initiative for industry diversification and
regional peace and stability, President Rouhani departure from dependence on oil, and on the
stated that Iran also hopes for regional peace and “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Initiative”
stability and that Iran intends to continue close between Japan and the United Arab Emirates.
cooperation with Japan. In addition, when Prime Ministerial meetings regarding the “Saudi-Japan
Minister Abe explained that Japan was consid- Vision 2030”were held in June and October to
ering utilization of SDF assets to strengthen its confirm progress on cooperation and to exchange
information gathering posture, President Rouhani opinions on policies for future cooperation (see
said that Iran appreciates Japan’s diplomatic the Column on page 146).
efforts to ease regional tensions and understands
Japan’s intention to contribute to ensuring safety
of navigation through its own initiatives, and, in
addition, that Iran appreciates Japan’s transpar-
ency in explaining this initiative.
January 2020 saw the killing of Major General
Qasem Soleimani, Commander of the Islamic
Revolutionary Guard Corps-Quds Force by the
U.S. and Iranian attack on U.S. military bases in
Iraq. The tensions remain high in the Middle East.
2019 was the 90th anniversary of the establish- Japan-Saudi Arabia Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
(November 22, Nagoya, Aichi)
ment of diplomatic relations between Japan and
Iran. Among a variety of related events, in August, Many high-level dignitaries visited Japan in
Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs 2019, such as the visit by H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin
Yamada Kenji visited Iran and attended a cere- Hamad Al-Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar to
mony to commemorate the 90th anniversary of Japan (Official Visit) in January, the visit by H.R.H.
the establishment of diplomatic relations between Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al
Japan and Iran (see the Column on page 144). Saud to Japan in June for the G20 Osaka Summit,

1 Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain

DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2020 145

 Chapter 2 Japan’s Foreign Policy that Takes a Panoramic Perspective of the World Map

Column Japan-Saudi Vision 2030

Japan and Saudi Arabia have consistently maintained a good

relationship since the establishment of diplomatic relations in
1955. In particular, economic cooperation, including cooperation
in the petroleum industry, forms the foundation for bilateral rela-
tions; Saudi Arabia has continued to be Japan’s largest crude oil
supplier, while Japan has continued to be one of Saudi Arabia’s
largest crude oil importers. Saudi Arabia is a major energy power
that boasts one of the world’s largest oil deposits, greatest amount
H.R.H. Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin
of oil production, and most oil exports. On the other hand, its Abdulaziz Al Saud and Prime Minister
greatest challenge is to reduce its dependence on oil, which con- Abe in agreement to launch the Joint
Group for“The Japan-Saudi Vision
tributes to about 90% of its total exports and about 80% of its 2030”(September 1, 2016, Tokyo;
Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office)
fiscal revenue. Saudi Arabia is entering an era of great transforma-
tion as it seeks to break away from oil dependence and diversify
its industries. Against this backdrop, it is deepening its bilateral relationship with Japan not only in the
field of energy, but across a wide range of areas including politics, society, and culture. The remarkable
progress achieved in their bilateral relations is materialized as“The Japan-Saudi Vision 2030.”
Saudi Arabia announced“The Saudi Vision 2030”in April 2016, with a view to realizing inclusive devel-
opment through reducing dependence on oil and diversification of industries. In response, Japan took
the opportunity of the visit by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
to Japan in March 2017 to announce bilateral cooperation through“The Japan-Saudi Vision 2030”with
the aim of cooperating with Saudi Arabia, as Japan’s strategic partner, toward the realization of“The
Saudi Vision 2030.”Placing emphasis on the synergistic effect between“The Saudi Vision 2030,”which
is Saudi Arabia’s new national strategy, and“Japan’s Growth Strategy”that aims to achieve a GDP of 600
trillion yen, it advocates for the implementation of projects that will create a win-win situation for both
Japan and Saudi Arabia through public-private cooperation. It establishes three pillars for cooperation
between the two countries: diversity, innovation, and soft values (social and cultural values). Currently,
65 ministries and agencies from both countries have been involved, and are advancing comprehensive
cooperation spanning nine fields (competitive industries, energy and environment, entertainment, health-
care and medical, agriculture and food, quality infrastructure, SMEs and capacity building, culture, sports
and education, and investment and finance).
In October 2019, the Fourth Ministerial Meeting on“The Japan-Saudi Vision 2030”convened in
Tokyo to confirm the basic direction and progress of specific projects. This meeting was attended
by senior officials including Minister of Economy and Planning Mohammed bin Maziad Al Tuwaijri and
Minister of Commerce and Investment, Majid bin Abdullah Al Qasabi. The two countries signed“The
Japan-Saudi Vision 2030 2.0 Updated”which takes into consideration progress made after the Third
Ministerial Meeting held in June the same year while setting out
the following as the new direction for the vision: (1) Unwavering
support for Saudi Arabia’s economic reform; (2) Enhancement and
acceleration of cooperation that captures social change, such as
entertainment and tourism; and (3) Acceleration of the materializa-
tion and realization of cooperation projects.
Under the new compass embodied by“The Japan-Saudi Vision
2030,”the relationship between Japan and Saudi Arabia, built up
over many years, is moving forward with momentum day by day for
Fourth Ministerial Meeting
(October 23, 2019, Tokyo) the growth and prosperity of the two countries.

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and the visits by H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad

Al-Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar and H.R.H.
Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown
Prince of the Kingdom of Bahrain in October on
the occasion of the Ceremony of the Enthronement

Chapter 2
of His Majesty the Emperor.
From Japan, Foreign Minister Kono visited Saudi
Arabia in April. Prime Minister Abe, amidst rising
tensions in the Middle East, visited Saudi Arabia,
the United Arab Emirates, and Oman in January
Meeting between Prime Minister Abe and Crown Prince
2020, and the countries shared the view that all Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia (January 12, Ulah,
Saudi Arabia; Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office)
parties should exercise self-restraint and make
every possible diplomatic effort to prevent further
deterioration of the situation. In addition, Prime
Minister Abe explained to the leaders of the coun-
tries the information gathering activities by the
Self-Defense Forces for the purpose of ensuring
the safety of navigation of Japan-related vessels
in the Middle East and gained their support and
understanding. Furthermore, the strengthening of
bilateral relations was also confirmed.
In Yemen, the Houthis have continued to fight
against the Yemeni Government and the Arab
Meeting between Prime Minister Abe and Crown Prince
Coalition despite the Stockholm Agreement2 that Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of Abu Dhabi (January 13,
United Arab Emirates; Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office)
was signed between the Yemeni Government and
the Houthis in December 2018. However, some
improvements have been seen, such as a reduc-
tion of cross-border attacks by the Houthis into
Saudi Arabia and the release of some prison-
ers of war between the Arab Coalition and the
Houthis in November. In August, there were tem-
porary clashes between the Yemeni Government
and the South Transitional Council (STC, which
asserts the separation and independence of
southern Yemen), and in November the“Riyadh
Agreement,”which includes the establishment of Prime Minister Abe conveying condolences to and conversing with
Sultan Haitham bin Tariq bin Taimur Al Said of Oman (January 14,
a new government by the Yemeni Government Muscat, Oman; Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office)
and the STC, was signed with the intermediation
of Saudi Arabia and others. The severe human- support of more than 250 million US dollars in
itarian situation in Yemen has continued due to total to Yemen through cooperation with UN
the impact of the prolonged conflict, and from agencies and others, and Japan will continue to
January 2015 to December 2019 Japan provided provide support for the stabilization of Yemen.

2 Under UN mediation and at a conference between the disputing parties held in Sweden, both sides agreed to a ceasefire in
Hudaydah, withdrawal from the city and port, and exchange of detainees, etc.

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 Chapter 2 Japan’s Foreign Policy that Takes a Panoramic Perspective of the World Map

(3) Iraq displaced persons caused by ISIL’s invasions. In

In Iraq, since October, one year after the estab- September Prime Minister Abe received a cour-
lishment of the government headed by Prime tesy call from Ms. Nadia Murad (an Iraqi recipient
Minister Abdul-Mahdi, there have been inter- of the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize 2018) during the
mittent large-scale demonstrations in Baghdad UN General Assembly, and she thanked Japan for
and central and southern Iraq demanding radi- its support of Iraq.
cal reforms to the political system in addition to The 80th anniversary of the establishment of
improvements to public services and measures Japan-Iraq diplomatic relations was celebrated in
to reduce unemployment and poverty. Prime November, and exchanges between the two coun-
Minister Abdul-Mahdi promised to support the tries have advanced, centering on academic and
people’s lives and implement various reforms, but intellectual exchanges. In February, six members
announced his resignation in December among of the Iraqi Parliament visited Japan and attended
continuing demonstrations. a “Seminar to Share Japan’s Experiences and
With regard to security, against the backdrop Knowledge”aimed at utilizing Japan’s knowledge
of the U.S.-Iran conflict, there were multiple for reconstruction and national reconciliation.
rocket attacks targeting Iraqi military bases and
U.S. interests in Iraq, as well as drone attacks on (4) Syria
Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) bases. The Iraqi A Situation
military and security agencies continue to wipe The ongoing Syrian crisis, which began in 2011
out remnants of the“Islamic State in Iraq and the and is seeing continued military confrontation
Levant (ISIL)”in northern and northwestern Iraq, with no prospects of stabilization, has resulted in
although the threat has not been eradicated and the deaths of as many as about 570,000 people
sporadic terrorist activity by ISIL is still occurring as well as created more than 5.6 million refugees
in various parts of Iraq, including in Baghdad. and approximately 5.9 million internally displaced
After the regional parliamentary elections in persons. It is considered to be this century’s worst
September 2018, arrangements for the formation humanitarian crisis.
of the regional government in the Kurdistan region ISIL, which had expanded its strength in Syria
progressed, and in June 2019 President of the and Iraq since 2013, lost all of its territory in March
Kurdistan Region Nechirvan Barzani took office, 2019, and its decline became decisive in October
with a regional government being formed in July, when ISIL leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was killed
headed by Masrour Barzani, Prime Minister of the while hiding in the Idlib region of northwestern
Kurdish Regional Government. Syria. On the other hand, it has been pointed out
Japan continues to contribute to infrastructural that there are still dormant ISIL cells in hiding,
reconstruction in Iraq through yen-loan projects in waiting for opportunities to carry out terrorism.
areas such as water and electricity supply. In June Thus the international community continues to
an exchange letter was signed on a yen loan to watch that trend.
improve Iraq’s largest refinery, and in September In the Idlib region, Russia and Turkey agreed
renovation work on a thermal power plant near (commonly known as the Sochi Agreement) in
Baghdad, which was rehabilitated through a yen September 2018 to tension mitigation measures,
loan project, was completed. Furthermore, Japan centering on the establishment of a demilitarized
continued to provide support of 63 million US zone. The implementation of the agreement has
dollars through international organizations as an not progressed. In April 2019 fighting intensified,
effort to stabilize Iraq for the purpose of the early between the dissidents and the Syrian govern-
return and settlement of the refugees and internally ment Army, which receives support from Russia,

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causing a deterioration of humanitarian conditions its position that Israel’s annexation of the Golan
and giving rise to more than 500,000 internally Heights would not be permitted, referring to UN
displaced persons. Amidst this, various factions Security Council resolution 497, etc.
within the opposition groups are also working
together to defend their positions. It is expected B Political Process

Chapter 2
that the situation will remain unchanged for an As for the political process, Syrian dialogue has
extended period of time. been suspended since 2018, but in September
Turkey, which has security concerns about 2019 UN Secretary-General Guterres announced
the Kurdish forces (PKK / YPG) deployed in the that the Syrian Government and dissidents had
northeastern regions of Syria, has eliminated agreed to establish a constitutional committee to
terrorist organizations such as ISIL and other discuss constitutional amendments, and the open-
forces from the Syria-Turkish border area. Then ing ceremony and the committee’s first meeting
Turkey launched the operation“Peace Spring”on were held in Geneva in October. The international
October 9 to establish a“safe zone”in northeast- community welcomed the establishment of the
ern Syria in order to secure a return destination committee, but many think that its future activities
for Syrian refugees in Turkey. Following the will not be easy because, prior to its establish-
launch of this operation, there was an occurrence ment, there were difficult negotiations over the
of estimated 220,000 or more internally displaced selection of people, management, and committee
persons, and the humanitarian situation became rules. The international community continues to
aggravated. Turkey has held discussions with call for progress in the political process, in line
the U.S. and Russia, and it appears that Turkey with UN Security Council resolution 2254, which
has achieved some of its initial operational goals, calls for a political resolution to the Syrian crisis.
such as the partial withdrawal of Kurdish forces
(PKK / YPG) and the implementation of joint C The Japanese Government’s Efforts
patrols with Russia and others in the border areas. Japan has consistently maintained its position
On the other hand, the outlook remains unclear that the crisis in Syria cannot be resolved by any
as new issues arise, such as how Syrian refugees military means, and a political solution is indis-
should return to the“safe zone,”or advances of pensable. At the same time, Japan also attaches
the Syrian government troops stationed in the importance to providing continuous support for
northeastern region, and approach between the improving humanitarian conditions. From this
Syrian Government and the Kurdish forces (PKK / standpoint, following the aggravated situation in
YPG). Under these circumstances, even though Syria, Japan has provided total assistance worth
the U.S. announced its withdrawal from the north- more than 2.7 billion US dollars to Syria and
eastern regions of Syria, it maintains armed forces neighboring countries from 2012 to the end of
in oil fields such as in the northeastern regions for 2019 for humanitarian assistance.
anti-terrorism measures and other reasons. In September Japan decided to provide approx-
Israel made attacks in Syria, worrying about imately 12 million US dollars of new support
the increasing influence of Iran and Hezbollah (a in order to restore the pediatric hospital in the
Shiite Muslim organization that campaigns against eastern Aleppo area, which was damaged by
Israel) in Syria. In light of these Israeli concerns, fighting, and to quickly restore community health
U.S. President Trump on March 25 signed a U.S. and medical services. Furthermore, in December
Presidential Proclamation acknowledging the Japan decided to provide additional assistance of
Golan Heights to be a part of Israel. In response 14 million US dollars as emergency humanitar-
to this, the international community reiterated ian assistance for northeastern Syria, where the

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 Chapter 2 Japan’s Foreign Policy that Takes a Panoramic Perspective of the World Map

humanitarian situation had deteriorated.

Japan intends to continue its efforts in close
coordination with the international community to
improve and stabilize the situation in Syria, with
focus on humanitarian support, which is Japan’s
forte.

(5) Jordan and Lebanon

The situation in Jordan remains relatively
stable compared to other parts of the constantly
turbulent Middle East region. Jordan has, under Japan-Jordan Summit Meeting (September 23, New York, U.S.;
Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office)
the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II,
played an important role in promoting the peace US dollars of the 300 million US dollar develop-
and stability of the region, such as with counter- ment policy loans that were signed during King
measures against extremists, its acceptance of Abdullah II’s visit to Japan in November 2018.
a large number of Syrian refugees, and active Lebanon is a nation with a cultural and religious
involvement in the Middle East Peace Process. mosaic consisting of 18 religions and sects, includ-
The country’s role is highly regarded by the inter- ing Christianity and Islam. In May 2018, elections
national community. for the Lebanese Parliament were held for the first
With regard to Jordan’s relations with Japan, a time in nine years in a peaceful manner. Despite
foreign ministerial meeting was held in Stockholm the required time due to difficulties in coordinat-
(Sweden) in June, and a summit meeting was held ing between religions, in January 2019 the third
in New York (U.S.) in September, in the margins Hariri Cabinet was established.
between international conferences. In December However, large-scale anti-government demon-
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Suzuki Keisuke strations took place across Lebanon in October,
visited Jordan. From Jordan, His Royal Highness triggered by opposition to the introduction of
Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, Crown Prince of tax increases in the 2020 government budget.
Jordan, was in attendance for the Ceremony of The demonstrators protested against the current
the Enthronement of His Majesty the Emperor in sectarian political system and the eradication of
October and met with Prime Minister Abe. Thus, corruption, and demanded early elections and the
Japan and Jordan have held active dialogues at establishment of a“technocrat cabinet”that is not
the leader and ministerial levels and strengthened based on sectarianism. In response to this, Prime
their strategic partnership. The two countries Minister Hariri announced his resignation, but the
have shared the view to coordinate on bringing outlook for the situation in Lebanon was uncer-
stability to the Middle East and to further develop tain because of a lack of progress in coordination
the countries’ bilateral relations in a wide range of between religions over the state of the next cabi-
areas such as diplomacy, security, and economics. net. The absence of government seemed to have
Japan also attaches importance to Jordan, and had a large impact on the Lebanese economy.
in 2019, held the bilateral First Foreign Affairs and It was hoped the next cabinet would be estab-
Security Consultation (Pol-Mil Dialogue), decided lished soon. In this regard, when State Minister
on a free loan to Jordan of a Type 61 MBT (Main for Foreign Affairs Suzuki visited Lebanon in
Battle Tank) for exhibition, and progressed secu- December 2019, he affirmed to government offi-
rity cooperation. In addition, on the economic cials the importance of promoting dialogue with
front, in May 2019 Japan contributed 100 million citizens.

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Japan has also provided Lebanon with human-

itarian aid for assistance to Syrian refugees and
the host communities, and since 2012 has pro-
vided support of more than 210 million US dollars
in total.

Chapter 2
(6) Turkey
Turkey is a geopolitically important country
in the region. As a member state of the North
Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Turkey
Japan-Turkey Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (November 22, Nagoya)
plays a significant role in regional security while
proactively pursuing multifaceted diplomacy with
states in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Turkey with Western countries have continued over the
has traditionally been one of the friendliest coun- repatriation of ISIL foreign combatants detained
tries with Japan, as typified by episodes such as in Turkey to their home countries. On the other
the Ertugrul Frigate incident in 1890.
3
hand, Russia and Turkey, in addition to the situa-
After the presidential election in June 2018, tion in Syria, have established close relationships
Turkey moved from a parliamentary cabinet in the energy sector such as constructing gas pipe-
system to an executive presidential system in lines and nuclear power plants. In Libya, which
which entire executive authority belongs to the faces an unstable situation, Turkey has made
president. In the local elections held on March moves such as the decision to dispatch troops to
31, 2019, the People’s Alliance by the Justice and Libya. Turkey also concluded a Memorandum of
Development Party (AKP), which was the ruling Understanding (MOU) with the Government of
party, and the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) National Accord of Libya concerning determina-
lost in six of the ten largest cities, including in tion of the sea area in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Istanbul and Ankara. Following the AKP’s appeal, These decisions imply Turkey’s interest in the nat-
the Istanbul’s mayoral re-election was held on ural gas fields of the Eastern Mediterranean.
June 23, but the Imamoglu Republican People’s In Turkey’s relations with Japan, President
Party (CHP, opposition) candidate won again Erdogan visited Japan to attend the G20 Osaka
with 54% of the vote. Summit, and a summit meeting was held in
Tensions in the U.S.-Turkey relationship Tokyo in July. In October Minister of Culture and
increased for a time, with the U.S. imposing sanc- Tourism Ersoy attended the Ceremony of the
tions following Turkey’s operation“Peace Spring” Enthronement of His Majesty the Emperor, and
in Syria. An agreement was later reached between in November the Japan-Turkey Foreign Ministers’
Turkey and the U.S., and between Turkey and Meeting was held on the margins of the G20 Aichi-
Russia, ending military operations, and the U.S. Nagoya Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. In addition, in
lifted sanctions. However, discussions between December Special Advisor to the Prime Minister
the U.S. and Turkey continue over the introduc- Kihara Minoru visited Turkey and met with gov-
tion of Russian missile defense systems (S-400), ernmental officials, including Chief Advisor to the
which is a pending issue in bilateral relations. In President of the Republic of Turkey Cevik.
addition to military operations in Syria, tensions

3 For details for the Ertugrul Frigate incident, please refer to https://www.mofa.go.jp/mofaj/ms/da/page22_001052.
html (only in the Japanese language)

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(7) Middle East Peace Process economic independence through regional cooper-
A Developments in the Middle East Peace ation with Japan, Palestine, Israel, and Jordan. As
Process of the end of 2019, 15 private Palestinian compa-
The Middle East Peace Process has stagnated nies are operating in the JAIP, which has created
since negotiations between Israel and Palestine approximately 200 jobs.
faltered in April 2014. Israeli settlement activities In addition, Japan is mobilizing the resources and
in the West Bank continue, but due to the occur- economic development knowledge of East Asian
rence of periodic rocket attacks from the Gaza countries to support Palestinian nation building
Strip, mutual mistrust has deepened and a return through the Conference on the Cooperation among
to talks has not been achieved. East Asian countries for Palestinian Development
Additionally, the U.S. Trump administration (CEAPAD). The Third Senior Officials Meeting of
announced in December 2017 its position recog- the CEAPAD was held in Palestine in July. The
nizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and moved conference serves as an opportunity for business
the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in meetings with Palestinian companies, and has
May, 2018. The Trump administration in August also steadily achieved results, such as a signing
also decided to suspend all support to the United ceremony for a memorandum of understanding
Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine on cooperation between the Indonesian Chamber
Refugees (UNRWA). The Trump administration of Commerce and the Palestinian Chamber of
acknowledged Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Commerce.
Heights in March 2019, and in November Secretary
of State Pompeo remarked that the establishment (8) Israel
of Israeli settlements was not inconsistent with Israel excels in the development of advanced
international law. The Palestinian side is strongly technology and innovation and holds importance
opposed to this series of U.S. policies. for the Japanese economy. It is also an important
In January 2020, the U.S. announced its vision country in the stability of the Middle East region.
for peace in the Middle East, and various dis- In recent years, Israel has been expanding its rela-
cussions have been held in the international tionship with Asian countries, including Japan, as
community; attention is being paid to future a part of its efforts to diversify its diplomacy. As
movements, including the resumption of dialogue a result, the cooperative relations between Japan
between Israel and Palestine. and Israel have been strengthened exponentially
in the economic front. The number of businesses
B The Government of Japan’s Efforts and the amount and number of investments
Japan, while working with the international com- from Japan to Israel are increasing. In addition,
munity toward the achievement of a “two-state the Embassy of Japan in Israel established the
solution”that would enable Israel and Palestine Japan Innovation Center under its auspices, and
to coexist in peace, has actively contributed is engaged in providing active support for devel-
through the three pillars of political dialogue with oping relationships between Japanese and Israeli
stakeholders, trust building among the parties, corporations.
and financial support for Palestinians. As a unique General elections were held in Israel in April and
Japanese initiative, Japan, setting the Jericho September, but no agreement to form a govern-
Agro-Industrial Park (JAIP) as a flagship project, ment was reached, and another general election
has been promoting the“Corridor for Peace and was held in March 2020. Despite this uncertainty
Prosperity” initiative, which is a medium- and about domestic politics, Japan and Israel are, based
long-term contribution to facilitate Palestinian on Prime Minister Abe’s visit to Israel in May 2018,

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promoting the construction of multi-faceted rela- mediation efforts, Fatah and Hamas reached an
tions, including political and economic relations. agreement in-principle in October 2017 to trans-
Approximately 200 people from 100 Japanese fer power in the Gaza Strip to the PA. However,
companies accompanied Minister of Economy, the agreement has not been implemented and the
Trade and Industry Seko Hiroshige’s visit to Israel division remains, with the West Bank still held by

Chapter 2
in January 2019. In September a Memorandum Fatah and the Gaza Strip remaining effectively
on Protection of Information for the Exchange of under Hamas control.
Classified Information on Defense Equipment and In October 2019 Prime Minister Abe had a meet-
Technology between the Ministry of Defense of ing with President Abbas, who visited Japan to
Japan and the Ministry of Defense of Israel was attend the Ceremony of the Enthronement of His
signed. In addition, direct charter flights between Majesty the Emperor, and President Abbas also
Narita and Tel Aviv were operated in September had dinner with Foreign Minister Motegi. During
and December, and direct flights by El Al Israel these opportunities, they widely exchanged
Airlines are also planned to begin in 2020. The views on the issue of peace in the Middle East
exchange of high-ranking officials between Japan and discussed support for Palestine, including the
and Israel has also continued to flourish, as in May “Corridor for Peace and Prosperity”initiative led
when Israeli Attorney General Mandelblit visited by Japan.
Japan, while in August the official delegation of In December State Minister for Foreign Affairs
the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Suzuki visited Palestine and, in addition to meeting
Representatives and in December State Minister with President Abbas, Prime Minister Shtayyeh,
for Foreign Affairs Suzuki visited Israel. Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Malki,
he also visited the Jericho Agro-Industrial Park
(9) Palestine (JAIP) and received an explanation about the
Based on the Oslo Accords of 1993 and other JAIP’s current status from Minister of National
agreements, the Palestinian Authority (PA) began Economy Osaili.
self-government rule in the West Bank and Gaza
Strip from 1995. Prime Minister Abbas assumed (10) Afghanistan
office as President after the presidential elections Afghanistan is a multi-ethnic state located
held in January 2005. After that, however, relations between Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle
between the Fatah led by President Abbas and East. In the country, the severe security situation
Hamas deteriorated, and Hamas seized control of continues, with the Afghan government troops
the Gaza Strip by military force. Through Egypt’s conducting cleanup operations against active

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Suzuki visits the Jericho Agro- Japan-Afghanistan Summit Meeting
Industrial Park (JAIP) (December 21, Palestine) (October 23, Tokyo; Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office)

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 Chapter 2 Japan’s Foreign Policy that Takes a Panoramic Perspective of the World Map

l
cia
Spe ture
Fea Bringing Hope to Gaza: Inviting Teachers from the Gaza Strip, Palestine, to Japan

“At the beginning of 2019, we will invite to Japan approximately ten ele-
mentary and junior high school teachers from the Gaza Strip. This will be the
first such group and we will continue to invite teachers annually.”
This announcement was made by Prime Minister Abe at the UN General
Assembly held in New York, the U.S., in September 2018. Palestine, in the
Middle East, is not familiar to many of the Japanese people. What is happen-
ing in the Gaza Strip, and what has Japan begun to do?
Palestine consists of two areas separated by Israel which lies in between:
the West Bank of the Jordan River, and the Gaza Strip that is adjacent to the
Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. In addition to the ongoing conflict between Israel
and the Palestinian sides since 1948, the region has also been affected by
internal rivalry between Palestinian factions since 2007. As a result, the Gaza
Strip has suffered from an enclosed environment for more than ten years, and Prime Minister Abe announcing
its humanitarian and economic conditions continue to deteriorate. Amidst the invitational program for
teachers from Gaza, at the UN
the unstable situation with unemployment rate exceeding 40%, the situa- General Assembly (September
tion surrounding the people of Gaza has become intolerable, especially with 2018, New York, U.S.; Photo:
Cabinet Public Relations Office)
regard to the sense of hopelessness among youths in the region.
The international community, including Japan, has to address the crisis that is present“right there and
now”through food assistance and other forms of support. At the same time, however, from the medium- to
long-term perspective, Palestine faces the pressing challenge of creating a sound educational environment
so that the youths who bear the future of Palestine on their shoulders do not lose their hope for the future
and their dignity as individuals.
Half a year after Prime Minister Abe’s address at the UN
General Assembly, ten teachers from the Gaza Strip arrived
at Narita International Airport on March 2, 2019. During their
stay lasting about a week, they were lectured by the Ministry
of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology and the
Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare about Japan’s edu-
cational system and human resource development, visited
the Tokyo Metropolitan School Personnel in Service Training
Center and other sites, and deepened their knowledge about
The visiting teachers paying a courtesy call on
the Foreign Minister (March 2019, Tokyo) education in Japan. In Hiroshima, they visited Noboricho
Elementary School, which is putting an emphasis on peace
education. In addition to experiencing how education for peace is implemented in practice, the teachers also
deepened their interaction with the children, such as by observing the serving of school meals.
In his address at the UN General Assembly, Prime Minister
Abe stated that,“Once 20 years pass, there will be 200 teach-
ers who will have experienced visiting Japan. The number of
students taught by them will number in the thousands.”By
continuing this invitation program for teachers from the Gaza
Strip, the“Japan”that these teachers learn about during their
stay is expected to spread gradually across the Gaza Strip. For
the children of Gaza, this will definitely become an inspiration
The teachers visiting the Hiroshima Peace
for the world outside they have yet to see, as well as their Memorial Park (March 2019, Hiroshima)
hope for the future. These children will also become the foun-
dation for a solid relationship between Japan and Palestine in the future.
MOFA will continue to provide assistance and support to Palestine through various projects, including
inviting teachers from the Gaza Strip to Japan.

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attacks by the anti-government Taliban and ISIL- too. 2019 was a year in which bilateral rela-
related organizations, and realizing peace with tions between Japan and Afghanistan expanded
the Taliban is one of the focal points. even further, but on the other hand, it was
Against this backdrop, the Afghanistan also a year that saw the loss of two Japanese
Government held a national great assembly individuals who made great achievements inter-

Chapter 2
(Loya Jirga), and there were efforts toward peace, nationally in supporting Afghanistan: Mrs. Ogata
such as the“Intra-Afghan Dialogue”in Moscow Sadako, who served as Special Representative
(Russia) and Doha (Qatar). In addition, although of the Government of Japan on Reconstruction
direct peace talks between the U.S. (Special Assistance to Afghanistan and as President of the
Representative Khalilzad) and the Taliban, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA),
which begun in the fall of 2018, were suspended and Dr. Nakamura Testu, the local representa-
in September 2019 at the direction of President tive of the Peshawar-kai, who made efforts in the
Trump, resumption of this effort was announced medical field and in irrigation projects.
by President Trump, who visited Afghanistan for
the first time in November. (11) Egypt
On September 28, Afghanistan held the pres- Located at the north-eastern edge of the African
idential election, which takes place once every continent and facing Europe on the other side of
five years. The current President Ghani and Chief the Mediterranean, Egypt is a major country in the
Executive Abdullah were candidates in the elec- region, and plays an important role in the stability
tion, and, after some confusion over the vote of the Middle East and North Africa.
counting, on December 22, a preliminary result Egypt’s domestic affairs are generally stable. In
showed that President Ghani had won with 50.6% June 2018 the El-Sisi administration entered its
of the vote. second term, and the constitutional referendum in
Japan is one of the major donors to Afghanistan, April 2019 made it possible for President El-Sisi
and in 2019 Japan continues to provide develop- to remain in office until 2030. On the economic
ment assistance in areas such as health, education, front, there has been a significant improvement in
agriculture, and human resources development, macroeconomic indicators such as GDP growth
as well as support for the Afghan police, and a and foreign exchange reserves by introducing a
variety of other support so that Afghanistan can floating exchange rate system in autumn 2016
become truly independent. The United Nations and decreasing the fuel subsidy system, as well as
Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), the introduction of value-added tax. In addition,
which is represented by Special Representative for three years since 2016, Egypt has been the
of the Secretary-General Yamamoto Tadamichi, largest destination in Africa of the foreign direct
plays an active role in supporting the peace pro- investment.
cess, in political fields including elections, and in Steady progress has been seen in the Japan-
humanitarian and developmental fields including Egypt relations since President El-Sisi’s visit to
coordination among donors. Japan in February 2016. Cooperation covers vari-
In May the Japan-Afghanistan Foreign Ministers’ ous areas such as the construction program of the
Meeting was held in Tajikistan for the first time Grand Egyptian Museum and the “Egypt-Japan
in seven years. In addition, President Ghani vis- Education Partnership (EJEP),” which includes
ited Japan on the occasion of the Ceremony of the introduction of Japanese-style education, an
the Enthronement of His Majesty the Emperor increase in the numbers of Egyptian students
in October, and a Japan-Afghanistan Summit and trainees to Japan, and strengthening support
Meeting was held for the first time in seven years, for the Egypt-Japan University of Science and

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The number of tourists from Japan to Egypt has

also been increasing in recent years.

3 The Situation in the North Africa Region

(Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco)
The Maghreb region is of great economic impor-
tance in Africa (Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia
are all in the top 10 GDP countries in Africa, and
Morocco is home to the second largest amount of
Japan-Egypt Summit Meeting Japanese companies in Africa) because of its high
(June 27, Osaka; Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office)
potential from the geographic advantage of being
Technology (E-JUST). In addition, since April located at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and
2019, two Self-Defense Force personnel have the Middle East. It also has an abundant and inex-
been dispatched to the Multinational Force and pensive young labor force. Each country in the
Observers (MFO) stationed on the Sinai Peninsula. region rode out the“Arab Spring”through vari-
In 2019 Egypt chaired the African Union (AU) ous methods and maintained political stability.
and invigorated diplomacy with Africa. In addi- In Tunisia, presidential elections and National
tion, the G20 Presidency was held by Japan and Assembly elections were held from September
many Egyptian dignitaries visited Japan to attend to October, and Mr. Kais Saied, an independent
relevant conferences. In June, relevant officials candidate, was elected president. Cabinet nego-
such as President El-Sisi and Minister of Foreign tiations are ongoing as of January 2020, and
Affairs Shoukry visited Japan and attended the attention is being paid to whether economic and
G20 Osaka Summit, and in August President social policy will be steadily implemented in the
El-Sisi and Minister of Foreign Affairs Shoukry future.
visited Japan and attended the Seventh Tokyo On the other hand, in Algeria, since February
International Conference on African Development 2019 protests against President Bouteflika’s long-
(TICAD7). In addition, Minister of Antiquities term government have taken place and been
El-Anany was in attendance for the Ceremony prolonged, and the administration was forced to
of the Enthronement of His Majesty the Emperor. resign in April. In a presidential election held in
From Japan, there were visits to Egypt in February December, President Tebboune was elected, and
by Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs the issue is whether the new administration will
Sonoura Kentaro, in March by Parliamentary be able to ensure stable administration of the
Vice-Minister of Defense Suzuki Takako, in government.
August by State Minister of Cabinet Sato Akira, In Algeria, the decline in energy income, which
in September by Parliamentary Vice-Minister of supports national finances, is becoming more seri-
Economy, Trade and Industry Isozaki Yoshihiko, ous, and overcoming regional disparities and high
and in December by Parliamentary Vice-Minister unemployment rates has also become an issue
for Foreign Affairs Nakatani Shinichi. in Morocco and Tunisia. Additionally, there are
Regarding bilateral business relations, a concerns about the security effects of weapons
Japanese business mission (40 companies) visited and illegal immigration from Libya and the Sahel
Egypt in March, and, in addition, the Japan-Arab region.
Economic Forum was held in September. It is Amidst this situation, Japan, Morocco, Tunisia,
expected that there will be increases in bilateral and Algeria have, with opportunities such as
investment and exchange of people in the future. TICAD7 and the Ceremony of the Enthronement

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Moulay Rachid, younger brother of His Majesty

the King Mohammed VI, attended the Ceremony
of the Enthronement of His Majesty the Emperor
and met with Prime Minister Abe. Through such a
series of exchanges of high-level dignitaries, both

Chapter 2
countries agreed to further develop close bilateral
relations.
The security situation in Libya has been unstable
since the collapse of the Qadhafi administration
in 2011, with parliament and government taking

Meeting between Prime Minister Abe and Prince Moulay sides in the east and west. In April 2019 General
Rachid of Morocco (October 24, Tokyo; Photo: Cabinet Public
Relations Office)
Khalifa Haftar of the “Libyan National Army,”
a powerful figure of the eastern side, ordered a
of His Majesty the Emperor, actively continued march to Tripoli that developed into an armed
exchanges of high-level officials since the end of conflict, including air strikes, with troops under the
2018, when Foreign Minister Kono visited each control of the Government of National Accord.
country. Momentum for strengthening partner- Armed conflicts have continued since then, and
ships with each country is increasing, and Japan the war has fallen into a deadlock. There have
will continue contributing to economic and social been more than 1,000 causalities, including ordi-
stability in the region. nary citizens, and it is expected that a ceasefire
Japan and Morocco, in particular, have been will be realized and that the political process by
developing friendly relations for many years on the the UN will be restarted.
basis of the relationships between the royal fam- Under these circumstances, Japan held a meet-
ilies of both countries, and high-level exchanges ing in August with Foreign Minister Siala, who
were successively realized in 2019, such as Minister was visiting Japan to attend TICAD7, and it was
of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation agreed that there is no military solution to the
Bourita’s attendance at TICAD7. In September the Libyan conflict and that a peaceful solution is
Japan-Morocco Parliamentary Friendship League essential.
visited Morocco, and His Royal Highness Prince

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