Mubarak receives former Japanese Prime Minister
Egypt-Japan, Politics, 10/9/2001

Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak Monday morning received former Japanese Prime Minister Ryntaro Hashimoto, envoy of Japanese Premier Junichiro Koizumi, and his accompanying delegation who arrived in Cairo Sunday night on a visit to Egypt.

The Japanese envoy will take part in the inauguration of Mubarak peace suspension bridge built with Japanese assistance across the Suez Canal.

He will also hold talks with officials in Cairo on the latest international developments in the light of events taking place in Afghanistan.

He will also hold talks with Arab League Secretary General Amr Moussa.

In statements to reporters following his meeting with President Hosni Mubarak, Hashimoto voiced belief that it is necessary to endeavour to reach a solution to the Middle East conflict, as President Mubarak said.

Talks with the President covered many issues, especially the latest developments on the international arena and the impact of such developments on the future of the region.

"Talks dwelt on the need to combat terrorism and at the same time reach a solution to the Mideast problem," he said.

Japan has always presented aid to the Palestinians and such policy will never change, he said, adding that Japan had informed Israel during previous talks of its stance regarding the Palestinian issue.

He expressed pleasure over attending the inauguration of Suez Bridge, pointing out that such joint Egyptian-Japanese achievement is a symbol of friendship.

"Japan is ready to carry out any projects with Egypt in the future that would enhance bilateral relations," he added.

Asked about his views regarding the U.S.-British strike on Afghanistan, Hashimoto said he was sorry for the attacks which started on Sunday.

"However, Japanese national were killed during the events of September 11 and we have to cooperate with the United States to combat terrorists," he said.

"Japan has approved the dispatch of troops for the first time since World War II not to use force but for matter pertaining to supporting refugees and providing medical care," he said.

"The Japanese government will contribute by 20 percent of the funds requested by the U.N. Higher-Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) which amount to $ 600 million," he said.

Previous Stories:
  Message to President from Japan's PM   (9/22/2001)
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  Japan supports Egyptian -Jordanian initiative   (5/15/2001)

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