In May 2025, Mr. Gideon Sa’ar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Israel, paid an official visit to Japan.
In May 2025, Mr. Gideon Sa’ar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Israel, paid an official visit to Japan — the first visit by an Israeli foreign minister in 15 years.
The main events during the visit are as follows:
Meeting with Chief Cabinet Secretary, Mr. Yoshimasa Hayashi
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Gideon Sa'ar:
“Honored to meet Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi. Japan has its own painful experience with the issue of abductees taken by North Korea. We appreciate Japan's call for the immediate release of our 58 remaining hostages.
We call and pray for the return of their abductees.”
Meeting with Foreign Minister, Mr. Takeshi Iwaya
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Gideon Sa'ar:
“Honored to meet Japanese FM Takeshi Iwaya in Tokyo.
I conveyed our deep appreciation for Japan’s support after October 7th. Israel and Japan are two ancient nations, with glorious traditions and promising futures.
I look forward to further strengthening our relations!”
77th Independence Day Reception
A special evening celebrating Israel’s 77th Independence Day with FM Gideon Saar, marking the first visit to Japan by an Israeli FM in 15 years.
We were proud to host distinguished guests and celebrate the strong and growing friendship and partnership between Israel and Japan.
National Day of Israel at Expo 2025 Osaka–Kansai
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Gideon Sa'ar:
“We chose to participate in Expo 2025 despite the challenging times Israel is facing. Our decision to be here and represent Israel to the world reflects the resilience of the Jewish people. We stand here with pride, waving our flag and strengthening ties with our friends around the globe. The ancient stone displayed in our exhibition sends a clear message to those who deny the deep-rooted connection between the Jewish people and their ancestral homeland.
Our pavilion also highlights the strong friendship between Israel and Japan. Both our nations face shared challenges and common threats.”