Japan excluded from G7 statement because no Japanese nationals held hostage in Gaza｜Arab News Japan
Arab News Japan
TOKYO: A senior Japanese government official Monday gave a reason for a joint statement on the conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas issued by all Group of Seven countries excluding Japan.
All of the six G7 countries reportedly have had their citizens kidnapped to the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip or go missing, Chief Cabinet Secretary MATSUNO Hirokazu told a press conference.
Leaders of Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and the United States had phone talks and issued the statement Sunday that confirms Israel’s “right to defend itself against terrorism” and calls for “the immediate release of all remaining hostages.”
When previously asked by Arab News Japan why Japan did not sign the statement, Matsuno said: “Japan, as the chair country of the G7, has been closely collaborating with member nations and engaging in discussions with each country regarding the pursuit of peace. It seems that the joint statement was issued to reflect the diverse perspectives and positions of each G7 member on the matter.
“Japan’s absence from the statement may be attributed to its desire to maintain flexibility in its approach, while actively working behind the scenes to mediate and exert influence on both Palestine and Israel. Japan remains committed to making efforts toward de-escalation and contributing to the peaceful resolution of the situation.”
The five leaders’ statement emphasized that they recognized “the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people” and added: “Hamas does not represent those aspirations.”
Regarding Japan’s response to the conflict, Matsuno said, “We will communicate with related countries and continue our diplomatic efforts to calm the situation and improve the humanitarian conditions early.”
Japan is this year’s president of the G7 major powers.
*With JIJI Press
