Saleh al-khawaldah: Japanese Ambassador to Jordan Hideki Asari affirmed that peace and stability in the Middle East are of critical importance to Japan, given the close links between regional security, global supply chains, energy security, and freedom of navigation, describing Jordan as an "anchor of stability" in the region.
According to Jordan News Agency, the ambassador addressed a lecture titled "Japanese Diplomacy: Challenges, Opportunities and Responses," organized by the Center for Strategic Studies at the University of Jordan. The event was attended by researchers, academics, and political and economic experts. He emphasized the necessity of maintaining free and secure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and expressed hope for the restoration of stability through the ongoing implementation of the memorandum of understanding by all involved parties.
The ambassador outlined the critical role the Middle East plays in Japan's foreign policy, discussing the region's challenges, Japan's diplomatic strategies, and the strategic partnership between Japan and Jordan. On the Palestinian issue, he reiterated Japan's support for efforts to end the conflict in Gaza, promote good governance, and aid Palestinian state-building. He stressed halting unilateral measures in the West Bank, bolstering support for the Palestinian Authority, and advancing a two-state solution.
He noted Japan's provision of approximately $2.6 billion in assistance to Palestine since 1993, with $410 million allocated since October 2023. The ambassador also underscored Japan's long-term development initiatives, including the Corridor for Peace and Prosperity, the Jericho Agro-Industrial Park, and the Conference on Cooperation among East Asian Countries for Palestinian Development (CEAPAD).
Describing Jordan as an "anchor of stability," he praised the Kingdom's resilience and active diplomacy under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II. He commended Jordan's role in hosting refugees, facilitating the evacuation of foreign nationals from neighboring countries, and serving as a regional hub for humanitarian assistance to Gaza, Syria, Lebanon, and other crisis-affected areas.
The ambassador reaffirmed Japan's commitment to supporting Jordan's resilience and regional role. Since 1974, Japan has provided nearly $4.335 billion in Official Development Assistance (ODA) to Jordan. Additionally, Japan allocated $12.5 million in humanitarian aid during fiscal year 2025 through six United Nations agencies, including UNRWA.
The Japanese envoy also addressed broader global challenges, such as pressures on the rules-based international order, climate change, nuclear non-proliferation, economic security, and rapid advances in science and technology. He highlighted Japan's efforts to uphold the rule of law, strengthen cooperation with the United States and like-minded partners, and support global governance.
The ambassador further discussed Japan's Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) initiative, highlighting its role in fostering regional connectivity, economic growth, and international cooperation. He noted the initiative's significance for the Middle East, adding that Japan views Jordan not only as a pillar of regional stability but also as a potential bridge linking the Indo-Pacific region with the Middle East and Europe.
Participants concluded that the rapidly evolving regional and international environment underscores the importance of further strengthening the strategic partnership between Jordan and Japan and expanding cooperation in regional stability, development, human security, and economic connectivity.