His Majesty King Abdullah on Tuesday met with Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono and discussed Jordanian-Japanese relations and the latest developments in the Middle East.

The strong ties of friendship between the two countries and keenness to advance them in multiple areas were also highlighted, in addition to the importance of maintaining coordination and consultation on issues of mutual concern.

At the meeting, King Abdullah noted the importance of holding the fourth policy dialogue meeting between Jordan and Japan in Amman early next year to expand cooperation in a number of sectors.

Tuesday’s meeting also covered a number of regional issues, foremost of which is the need to push the peace process forward.

His Majesty reiterated the importance of stepping up efforts to re-launch Palestinian-Israeli negotiations based on the two-state solution and leading to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.

The King commended Japan’s efforts in pursuit of peace in the region, through the Corridor for Peace and Prosperity initiative launched over 10 years ago.

The financial challenges facing UNRWA were also discussed, and His Majesty praised Japan’s role in providing support to the agency to enable it to continue its education, health, and relief services.

Moreover, discussions addressed the importance of reaching a political solution to the Syrian crisis that safeguards Syria’s territorial integrity, the unity of its people, and guarantees the safe return of Syrian refugees.

Discussing efforts to counter terrorism within a holistic approach, the King expressed appreciation for Japan’s role as a partner in the Aqaba Meetings, aimed at bolstering security and military coordination and cooperation, as well as the exchange of expertise and information among the various regional and international partners fighting terrorism.

Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, Adviser to His Majesty and Director of the Office of His Majesty Manar Dabbas, Jordan’s Chargé d'Affaires in Tokyo Raghad Al Saqqa, and Japan’s Ambassador to Jordan Hidenao Yanagi attended the meeting.