Jasem Al-Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), stressed the importance of the strategic partnership between GCC states and Japan during his meeting with Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya in Tokyo on Monday. He praised the ongoing development and productive cooperation between the two sides across various fields, particularly in economy, energy, and technology, reflecting their strong historical ties and shared interests.

Key Discussion Points:

• Strengthening bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest

• Progress on the GCC-Japan Free Trade Agreement negotiations

• Regional and international developments, including Japan's support for resolving the Palestinian issue based on international legitimacy

Invitation Extended:
Al-Budaiwi invited Minister Iwaya to attend the second joint ministerial meeting of the GCC-Japan Strategic Dialogue, scheduled for September 1, to further enhance strategic ties.

Japanese Foreign Ministry Statement:

• Recognized the GCC's growing role amid regional and global instability

• Highlighted hopes for the GCC's continued leadership in stabilizing global oil markets

• Expressed readiness to expand cooperation in political and economic fields, including early conclusion of the free trade agreement

Context:
The meeting followed the second round of GCC-Japan FTA negotiations, held from June 30 to July 4, aimed at deepening economic and trade relations.