Japan-Iran Joint Statement Seen Keeping Iran from Straits Closure

Tehran, Nov. 10 (Jiji Press)--The foreign ministers of Japan and Iran issued their first joint statement ever on Sunday, opening the way to an easing of regional tensions by making it more difficult for Iran to threaten to close the Straits of Hormuz. In the joint communique, issued at the end of their talks in the Iranian capital, Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida and his Iranian counterpart, Javad Zarif, emphasized "the importance of ensuring the maritime security and the safety of navigation." They also stressed "the significance of respect for the rule of law, as well as unimpeded trade and freedom of navigation on sea lanes" from the Persian Gulf to the Pacific Ocean. It is unusual for Iran to sign a written statement that can be taken as ensuring continued, safe flow of maritime traffic via the Straits of Hormuz, sources said. Tehran has repeatedly warned of a possible blockade of the straits over sanctions by Europe and the United States for the Middle East country's nuclear development program. Such warnings have caused surges in crude oil prices. More than 80 pct of the crude oil imported by Japan passes through the straits, located at the exit of the Persian Gulf and a key junction for crude oil transportation. If Iran is to abide by what the joint communique says, the country would find it difficult to push for the lifting the sanctions by sparking a crisis or to turn away from talks with the European and U.S. side, pundits noted. The statement is therefore expected to help provide indirect support for a negotiated solution to the Iranian nuclear issue, they added. A diplomatic source said that the statement itself will contribute to an easing of tensions in the region. "It will send a positive message to Gulf nations including Saudi Arabia, which is located at the opposite side of the gulf and regards Iran as a threat," the source said. END