Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi has expressed a strong desire to see international support for Palestine continue to expand. During the ministerial meeting of the Conference on Cooperation among East Asian Countries for Palestinian Development (CEAPAD) held in Manila, Philippines, on Wednesday, the minister emphasized that the viability of Palestine is a fundamental requirement for achieving a two-state solution.
The CEAPAD framework, which was established under Japanese leadership in 2013, serves as a platform for East Asian nations and the Palestinian Authority to coordinate development efforts. Motegi highlighted the initiative's role in long-term human resource development, specifically noting its contributions to talent building in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, education, and healthcare. He also advocated for trilateral cooperation, encouraging partner nations to leverage their unique strengths to assist in Palestinian state-building.
While Japan remains a consistent supporter of a two-state solution, it has yet to extend formal recognition to a Palestinian state. The Japanese government maintains that it is currently evaluating the most appropriate timing and method for such a move. Since 1993, Tokyo has contributed approximately $2.8 billion in assistance to Palestinians. This total includes roughly $410 million in humanitarian aid and essential supplies provided since October 2023.
