Japan condemns targeted killings, calling for a reduction in violence

Japan’s Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, on Tuesday condemned targeted killings and bombings in Afghanistan and called for a reduction of violence in the country.

The Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that Foreign Minister Haneef Atmar held a phone conversation with his Japanese counterpart and discussed the Afghan peace process, continuation of Japanese assistance to Afghanistan, aid effectiveness and the fight against corruption, the investigation into the assassination of Tetsu Nakamura, and the expansion of bilateral relations between the two friendly countries.

According to the statement, the Japanese Minister condemned the targeted killings and car bombings in Afghanistan, calling for a reduction in violence and making progress in the peace process.

Meanwhile, Atmar called Japan a trusted and generous partner to Afghanistan and expressed gratitude for Tokyo’s continued assistance, read the statement.

Afghan foreign minister also shared the latest developments in the peace process with his Japanese counterpart, including the Taliban’s breaches of their commitments, the statement said.