Japan/PNN/

The Government of Japan expresses its serious concern about the announcement by the Government of Israel on February 12 regarding the authorization of 9 settlement outposts and the plan to approve new settlement construction.

In a statement issued by Press Secretary ONO Hikariko tha Japanes Goverment said that settlement activities are in violation of international law and undermine the viability of a two- state solution.

Hikariko  added that Japan strongly urges the Government of Israel not to implement the measures and to totally freeze its settlement activities.

As the situation surrounding Israel and Palestine witnesses continued clashes and violence resulting in a number of casualties, Japan once again calls for refraining from actions that exacerbate tensions, Hikariko end his statment.