Japanese foreign minister Yoshimasa Hayashi praised Oman for its diplomatic efforts toward resolving the situation in Yemen.

In telephone talks on Thursday, Hayashi told Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi that Oman is a strong partner of Japan, and that they would appreciate continued cooperation.

In response, Albusaidi stated that the two countries have sustained a friendly relationship over the years. He added that he would like to continue working with Hayashi to further strengthen the bilateral relations as 2022 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Oman.

On the Ukrainian issue, Hayashi explained Japan condemned Moscow describing Russia’s “recent aggression against Ukraine as an attempt to unilaterally change the status quo by force, an act that shakes the very foundations of the international order, a clear violation of international law, and that it is absolutely unacceptable.”

According to a statement by the Japanese Foreign Ministry, Albusaidi also condemned the situation and stressed the importance of the role of the United Nations in various areas, including ensuring compliance with international law and the UN Charter.

Both sides confirmed that they would continue to work closely together to address the situation in Ukraine, including efforts through the UN.

The two ministers also exchanged views on the soaring crude oil prices in the wake of the situation in Ukraine. Hayashi expressed his hopes for Oman to continue playing a leading role in stabilizing the international oil market.

In response, Minister Albusaidi stated that Oman already has a role in stabilizing the international oil market, confirming their continued cooperation on the matter.

Albusaidi expressed his appreciated for Japan’s role in the region, explaining that it is important for stability in the Middle East.