Abe calls for Saudi Arabia's cooperation in stabilizing Middle East

Saudi Arabia is the first country Japan's prime minister, Shinzo Abe, has visited as part of his brief tour of the Middle East.

Abe met with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, whom he called for Saudi Arabia's cooperation in ensuring stability in the Middle East amid tensions between the United States and Iran.

The Japanese prime minister conveyed to the senior Saudi official his "deep concern" about the situation in the region, Kyodo reported.

The Japanese government has urged all parties to act in moderation and avoid a military escalation.

On the other hand, Abe offered explanations of Japan's plan to send its Self-Defense Forces to the Middle East on a mission that seeks to gather information to ensure the safety of commercial ship traffic in the region.

Saudi Arabia praised the plan, noting that all countries involved have a responsibility to ensure the safety of navigation in the area.

About 90% of Japan's oil imports come from the Middle East. Saudi Arabia is the world's largest oil exporter and a "crucial supplier" to Japan, according to Kyodo.

Abe was also received by King Salman. Its next destinations will be United Arab Emirates and Oman. (International Press)