Iran's foreign minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian, embarked on a significant diplomatic mission to Japan, marking the first high-level visit in over three years. During his visit to Tokyo, Amirabdollahian engaged in crucial discussions with top Japanese officials, including Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Japanese counterpart Yoshimasa Hayashi, and Health, Labour, and Welfare Minister Katsunobu Kato, Al Jazeera reported on August 7.
The timing of this diplomatic encounter holds historical significance, considering the previous high-level visit occurred in December 2019, amidst the aftermath of the United States' withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal and the subsequent reinstatement of comprehensive sanctions against Iran.
One prominent topic of discussion centred around Iran's alleged supply of armed drones to Russian forces involved in the conflict in Ukraine. Japan raised this concern, and Amirabdollahian reiterated Iranian refutations of any such involvement. He asserted that Iran had sent drones to Russia before the conflict and favoured peaceful dialogue to resolve the ongoing crisis.
Japan, which currently holds the presidency of the Group of Seven (G7) nations, has maintained economic sanctions on Russia in response to the Ukrainian conflict. The diplomatic conversations encompassed a range of issues, including Iran's nuclear activities. Japan expressed concerns about Iran's nuclear developments and urged cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), reflecting the global community's continued vigilance over Iran's nuclear program.
The focal point of Amirabdollahian's discussions was the nuclear accord, a multilateral agreement that sought to curtail Iran's nuclear ambitions in exchange for the lifting of international sanctions. Despite initial progress, the accord remains in a state of uncertainty over two years after its inception. Recent months have witnessed speculation about potential interim agreements between Iran and the United States, aimed at easing tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear activities and regional security.
Amirabdollahian's statements, however, seemed to downplay the possibility of an interim deal. He reaffirmed Iran's commitment to a comprehensive return to the nuclear deal through dialogue facilitated by European Union (EU) representatives. This stance underscores Iran's determination to address its nuclear program within the framework of the original accord.
The visit serves as a diplomatic avenue for both countries to exchange viewpoints on critical issues, fostering international dialogue and cooperation. Amirabdollahian's engagements in Japan provide insight into Iran's diplomatic strategy and its determination to pursue its interests through peaceful negotiations.
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