Japan deeply deplores approval by Israel of construction of housing units in the West Bank and E. Jerusalem – Press statement – Japanese Foreign Ministry press release/Non-UN document

Statement by the Press Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the decision regarding the construction of housing units in the West Bank and East Jerusalem

August 13, 2013
Japanese 

1. The Government of Japan deeply deplores that the Government of Israel has approved a plan for the construction of about 880 housing units in the Jewish settlements in the West Bank and tender for the construction of about 1,200 housing units in the Jewish settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

2. At a time when the direct negotiations between Israel and Palestine have just been resumed as a result of vigorous mediation efforts made by the U.S. and the next round of talks will be held this week, the continued settlement activity of the Israeli Government clearly goes against the efforts of the parties involved and could greatly impact the recently resumed peace process. Japan strongly calls upon Israel not to implement the above-mentioned plan of construction for the sake of progress in the peace process.

3. Japan once again strongly urges both sides to act to enhance mutual trust and continue to make steady efforts for peace.

doclink: http://www.mofa.go.jp/press/release/press18e_000004.html