Suga Talks With Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince
The Japanese prime minister has told the Saudi Arabian Crown Prince that Japan will support the Middle Eastern country's reforms centered on industrial diversification and reducing its dependence on crude oil.
Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman talked on the phone on Thursday.
Suga congratulated the Crown Prince on the success of the recent Group of 20 summit chaired by Saudi Arabia.
The Crown Prince responded by expressing gratitude for Japan's cooperation.
Suga also said Japan appreciates the stable supply of crude oil from Saudi Arabia, as well as the country's efforts to stabilize the international crude oil market.
He added that Japan's stance of backing Saudi Arabia's domestic reforms is unwavering.
The Crown Prince voiced hope that Saudi Arabia and Japan will further strengthen cooperation.
Suga also asked for Saudi Arabia's understanding and cooperation to resolve the issue of the abduction of Japanese nationals by North Korea as soon as possible.
