Japan Aims to Secure Safe Passage through Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb Straits

Japan is taking steps to ensure safe passage through two key Middle East straits that are critical transport waterways for Middle East crude oil. Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi visited Saudi Arabia and Oman, both key players in the region, for six days from August 18-24. The Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait are vital routes for international trade and commerce.

During his visit to Muscat, the capital of Oman, on Thursday, Motegi stressed that Japan is ready to play an active role in Oman's ongoing desalination project. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has also held talks with some Middle East leaders over the phone for cooperation.