Japanese ambassador: King Abdullah’s visit marks pivotal moment in Jordan–Japan ties

Japanese Ambassador to Jordan Asari Hideki said that His Majesty King Abdullah II’s upcoming visit to Japan comes at a defining moment for both nations.

Asari described the visit to Jordan News Agency (Petra), the King’s 16th to Japan and 13th since his accession, as a reflection of the “strong and trusted friendship” between the two countries. He emphasized that the bond between the Imperial and Hashemite families has long anchored cooperation in fields such as youth, culture, and education.

“The bilateral relationship between Japan and Jordan continues to grow from strength to strength,” Asari said. “Our strategic partnership spans political, security, and defense cooperation, as well as economic collaboration and people-to-people exchange.”
Asari noted that King Abdullah’s meeting with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will provide an opportunity for in-depth discussions on regional stability, defense cooperation, and development priorities. He pointed to the August visit of former Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani to Amman as evidence of deepening ties in the security sector.

Economically, Asari highlighted ongoing efforts between Tokyo and Amman to promote sustainable development, particularly through projects in infrastructure, environmental management, tourism, health, and education. He also commended Jordan’s participation in Expo 2025 Osaka–Kansai, calling its pavilion, featuring Wadi Rum and other landmarks, “one of the most popular attractions.”

During the visit, King Abdullah II is scheduled to attend a dinner hosted by Emperor Naruhito and hold a working dinner with Prime Minister Takaichi. According to Asari, the trip “will further elevate our bilateral relations and deepen cooperation across a wide range of fields.”

On regional issues, the ambassador described Jordan under the King’s leadership as “an anchor of stability in a turbulent region”, applauding the Kingdom’s humanitarian efforts in hosting millions of Palestinian and Syrian refugees.

Addressing the situation in Gaza, Asari said the first-phase agreement reached in October under the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict “represents a significant step toward de-escalation and the realization of a two-state solution.” He praised the King’s “visionary and responsible leadership” in pursuing a just peace, urging all sides to implement the plan “in good faith and in a steady manner.”

Asari reaffirmed Japan’s alignment with Jordan in supporting the two-state solution, emphasizing that both nations work together through bilateral and multilateral frameworks, including the High-Level International Conference for the Two-State Solution.

He also highlighted Japan’s Corridor for Peace and Prosperity initiative and its key project, the Jericho Agro-Industrial Park, aimed at bolstering the Palestinian economy as a foundation for sustainable peace.

“Japan deeply values Jordan’s indispensable contributions to humanitarian aid and regional stability,” Asari said. “Our two countries will continue to work hand in hand to realize the two-state solution and advance peace and prosperity across the Middle East.”