Statement by the Press Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, on the Situation in the Central African Republic

TOKYO, Japan, March 28, 2013/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Japan is deeply concerned on the rapid deterioration of the situation in the Central African Republic along with the military operation to Bangui by the “Seleka” coalition of armed groups since March 23.

Japan strongly urges restraint by all relevant parties, including Seleka and strongly expects that all relevant parties resolve their issues peacefully through dialogue in accordance with the Libreville Agreement reached in January.

Japan welcomes the continuous efforts for peace and stability made by countries in the region, in particular the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS). Japan expects the continuous initiatives taken by regional countries and ECCAS.