Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi concluded a two-day official visit to Riyadh on Wednesday, where he met with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council head, Rashad Mohammed Al-Alimi. The discussions centered on regional peace, maritime security, and economic cooperation between Japan and Saudi Arabia.
During talks with Prince Faisal, Motegi underscored the importance of maintaining freedom and safety of navigation in the Middle East, particularly in strategic waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz. As a maritime nation, Japan emphasized the significance of secure maritime routes for international trade. The Japanese delegation highlighted the longstanding partnership between Japan and Saudi Arabia and the commitment to ensuring a safe maritime environment. The two officials also discussed efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region.
Motegi also met with Al-Alimi, whose government operates in exile due to Yemen’s ongoing civil war with Houthi forces. The Foreign Minister reaffirmed Japan’s support for Yemen’s internationally recognized government and stressed that stability in Yemen is essential not only for the Middle East but for global security. Yemen’s location adjacent to the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, a critical shipping route linking the Gulf of Aden to the Red Sea, was noted as strategically important. The Bab al-Mandeb has served as an alternative crude oil route while the Strait of Hormuz faces periodic threats, particularly amid tensions involving the United States and Iran. However, the strait has itself faced challenges due to Houthi activities.
In addition to diplomatic and security discussions, Japan and Saudi Arabia explored economic collaboration under the framework of the Saudi-Japan Vision 2030. Motegi expressed a desire to strengthen bilateral relations through joint cooperation in economic and security sectors. The vision aims to broaden ties and foster mutual development over the coming years.
The meetings reflect ongoing efforts by Japan, Saudi Arabia, and their regional partners to promote stability, secure vital maritime passages, and enhance economic partnerships amid complex geopolitical dynamics affecting the Middle East.