TOKYO, February  9, 2010 (WAFA)- Mahmoud  Abbas, had an official meetings in Japan, discussing the Middle East Peace Process and the relationship between Japan and the Palestinian National Authority.

In joint press conference Dr. Yukio Hatoyama, Prime Minister of Japan, reaffirmed Japan's position that it supports President Abbas' efforts to achieve a two-state solution through negotiations.

Hatoyama, expressed his concerns over the present stagnation of the peace process, stressed that a comprehensive peace must be achieved at the earliest possible date, based on the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions, the Madrid Principles, the Roadmap, the agreements previously reached by the parties and the Arab Peace Initiative.

 Hatoyama called upon the Palestinians to continue its measures for cessation of violence. He also stressed the need for Israel to freeze all settlement activities. He assured that Japan would not recognize any act by Israel that would prejudge the final status of Jerusalem and territories in the pre-1967 borders.

He also expressed his support for the current efforts by the US, Arab countries and the rest of the international community for the resumption of negotiations.

President Abbas expressed his appreciation for Japan's support for his peace efforts.

President Abbas explained the current situation of the peace process, and elaborated his position regarding various issues on the peace process and reaffirmed his unequivocal commitment to a two-state solution.

Both leaders recognized that the resumption of negotiations between the Palestinians and Israel is urgently needed at the earliest possible time.