City
Epaper

Bolton meets top Japanese officials amid US-Iran tensions

By IANS | Updated: July 22, 2019 18:10 IST

US National Security Adviser John Bolton on Monday met top Japanese officials amid growing tensions with Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz.

Open in App

Bolton first met with Shotaro Yachi, chair of Japan's National Security Council, and later Foreign Minister Taro Kono, Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

"We had a very productive discussion on a wide range of issues," Bolton told reporters following his meeting with Yachi, Kyodo News reported.

During the meeting with Kono, Bolton said that he wants to maintain close cooperation with Japan to resolve issues in the region and reiterated his commitment towards working on North Korean denuclearization, said the statement cited by Efe news.

Issues believed to have been discussed in the meetings include Washington's international coalition plan to strengthen security around the Strait of Hormuz.

The maritime security initiative was drawn up following the attacks on two oil tankers in the region - one of which was operated by a Japanese firm. The US has alleged Iran's role in the attack.

It is estimated that a fifth of the world's oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz.

The White House reiterated that free navigation through the strait was important for global economic stability.

Bolton is to travel to Seoul on Tuesday for a two-day visit and is will meet with his South Korean counterpart Chung Eui-yong, Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha and Defence Minister Jeong Kyeong-doo to discuss - among other issues - the current status of denuclearization talks with North Korea.

( With inputs from IANS )

Tags: BoltonjapanShotaro YachiTaro KonoThe Strait Of Hormuz
Open in App

Related Stories

InternationalUS-Israel-Iran War: Japan, Germany, France Show Caution Over Trump’s Strait of Hormuz Warship Plan

MumbaiMumbai Police Go Viral With Punch-Inspired Post Promoting Emergency Helpline 112

InternationalJapan Announces First Day of Ramadan On February 19 As Crescent Moon Not Sighted

Social ViralWho Is Yuji Nishida? Japanese Volleyball Star’s Video Goes Viral for Unique Apology

LifestyleIs Japan the New Favourite Overseas Destination for Indian Travellers? Over 3 Lakh Visit in 2025

International Realted Stories

InternationalPakistani traders warn of protest if rise in petroleum prices not withdrawn

InternationalPakistan: Healthcare neglect sparks protest in Gujrat as residents demand basic facilities

International"Strait of Hormuz has to open": Former diplomat Sanjay Sudhir calls to safeguard India's energy security as Trump issues 48-hour ultimatum to Iran

InternationalPakistani forces accused of alleged enforced disappearances across Balochistan

InternationalArtemis II hits 2/3rd mark of journey to moon