Some Arab countries are reportedly alarmed by Japan's initiative on a U.N. resolution over weapons inspections in Iraq, but Foreign Ministry officials on Tuesday sought to soothe Iraq by saying the resolution is "well-balanced."
The resolution, jointly proposed by Japan and Britain and unanimously adopted by the United Nations Security Council, warns Iraq of the "severest consequences" if it fails to honor an accord with the U.N. over weapons inspections.
Reports have suggested that anti-Japanese sentiment could be spurred in Arab countries because of Japan's role in the document. A ministry official said that had been close consultations with Britain on the proposal, and that Foreign Minister Keizo Obuchi and Prime Minister Ryutaro Hashimoto were supportive of the joint effort.