Features of the Japanese Diplomatic Strategy towards the Gulf States.

This research note examines the diplomacy of Japan toward the Gulf states and Iran in the Middle East. It discusses how the Arab Gulf states and Iran are major commercial partners of Japan in the region, and how Japan’s goals in the Middle East are to promote shared prosperity, collaborate in areas such as energy, infrastructure, and the digital economy, and foster governance and civil society by combating corruption, protecting national sovereignty, and protecting vulnerable populations. The study also examines the military presence of Japan in the Red Sea and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force mission of protecting ships in the Strait of Hormuz to prevent terrorism, protect a vital oil shipping route, and foster a secure and stable region. Finally, the research outlines the five Kono Principles, which represent the outlook of Japan for future collaboration with the Middle East. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]