Mar 11 • 16:42 UTC 🇯🇵 Japan Asahi Shimbun (JP)

Prime Minister Kono Confirms Importance of Coordination on Iran at G7 Leaders' Online Meeting

Prime Minister Kono participated in an online G7 meeting discussing the escalating situation in Iran, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts in response.

Prime Minister Kono of Japan attended an online meeting of G7 leaders late on the night of the 11th to discuss the rising tensions surrounding Iran. After the meeting, Kono posted on X (formerly Twitter) early on the 12th, revealing that the leaders engaged in open discussions regarding the impact of the current Middle East situation on the global economy, financial and energy markets, as well as the security of maritime shipping routes including the Strait of Hormuz and the protection of their nationals in the region. He confirmed the importance of coordinated actions by the G7 to stabilize regional and global economic and energy needs.

During his post, Kono expressed his appreciation for the G7's agreement on coordinated oil stock releases through the International Energy Agency (IEA), highlighting Japan's initiative in declaring its own stock release. He urged the international community, including G7 nations and Gulf countries, to undertake all diplomatic efforts towards the early calming of the situation. This meeting took place against the backdrop of rising oil prices caused by escalating tensions in Iran, prompting Kono to announce Japan's planned oil stock release on the 16th as a direct response.

Furthermore, Kono communicated Japan's stance at the online meeting, condemning any acts that threaten the security of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and the attacks on energy-related civilian facilities in Gulf countries. He called for an immediate cessation of such acts, reiterating Japan's position that nuclear weapons development in Iran must not be tolerated. The discussions at the G7 highlight ongoing concerns over regional stability and its far-reaching implications for international energy security and economic stability.

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