Kono considering to visit Israel, Palestine this month: sources

December 9, 2017

Tokyo- Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono is considering visiting Israel and Palestine late this month, Japanese government sources said Friday.

Kono plans to call on both sides to continue peace negotiations following U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to recognize Jerusalem as the Israeli capital.

In a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Kono hopes to gain his understanding of Japan's support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

In talks with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Kono is expected to stress Japan's intention to promote its Corridor for Peace and Prosperity initiative designed to develop the Palestinian economy.

Kono also plans to visit an agricultural park in the West Bank city of Jericho, a key project under the initiative. Jiji Press