Jerusalem, 30 August, 2022 (TPS) — Israel’s Minister of Defense Benny Gantz was welcomed to the Japanese Ministry of Defense on Tuesday by his counterpart Minister Yasukazu Hamada with an honor’s guard ceremony, followed by a strategic dialogue between the parties that ended with the signing of a Memorandum of Defense Cooperation, which will enable the two countries to bolster the defense and strategic military ties.
The ministers welcomed the signing of the Memorandum as the two countries celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Israel, and reiterated the opportunity to further promote defense cooperation between the countries.
In his remarks, Gantz noted that “In Israel, our troops serve in the Israeli Defense Forces – IDF – because our mission is to defend our people. Our countries share this common goal – defending our homes, seeking peace and stability. Cooperation between Israel and Japan in developing technology and sharing knowledge, will enable us to achieve our common vision.”
Turning to current affairs he warned that “global stability is threatened by Iran’s nuclear program and malign activities.”
Before landing in Japan Gantz was in the US where he discussed the nuclear agreement with Iran.
“This threat requires a united international front led by the US,” he declared.
While in the country, Gantz also met with senior officials in the Japanese government, including Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno Hirokazu, National Security Advisor Akiba Takeo, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Hayashi Yoshimasa. Gantz also held a meeting with US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emmanuel.