The Government of Japan Sunday deplored the Israeli government’s decision to expropriate nearly 2,342 dunums near the West Bank district of Jericho, under the pretext of being classified as 'state land’.

“The announcement by the Government of Israel clearly contradicts the ongoing efforts by the international community toward a two-state solution,” said the statement issued by Japan’s Foreign Press Secretary, Yasuhisa Kawamura.

The Government of Japan called upon the Government of Israel to refrain from any unilateral acts, including settlement activities, which it stressed, 'does not contribute to resuming peace talks’.

It called on the Israeli government to desist from implementing the above-mentioned announcement.

“Japan once again strongly urges both sides to act to enhance mutual trust as well as to continue to make steady efforts for peace.”

Source: WAFA