May 16, 2012
Israel, Japan mark 60 years of relations
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Israel and Japan marked the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The anniversary, which was celebrated Tuesday, is set to be marked in both countries with a series of special events, including cultural events, academic meetings and visits by senior officials, according to Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Bilateral trade between the countries totaled $3.3 billion in 2011.
Japan is promoting various investment programs with the participation of Israel and the Palestinians, including the Peace Corridor project establishing an agro-industrial park near the city of Jericho with the participation of Japan, Israel, the Palestinian Authority and Jordan. Japanese military forces are deployed within the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force framework on the Golan Heights, and Japan also provides financial support to the Multinational Force and Observers deployed in the Sinai Desert.
“Israel appreciates the Japanese contribution to stability in our region,” the Foreign Affairs ministry said in a statement.
