Production of staples is important in order to secure enough food to feed the growing population and saving foreign currency. The Agriculture Ministry, therefore, gives the highest priority to improving the food self-sufficiency rate by increasing food production. As one concrete measure, it is trying to raise agricultural productivity by expanding arable land, using fertilizers, and promoting mechanization. As part of that effort, the Palestinian Interim Self-Government Authority has requested grant assistance from the Government of Japan to purchase fertilizers and agricultural machinery, such as tractors, with a view to increasing food production. Since 1993, Japan has extended a total of about 380 million dollars to the Palestinian Interim Self-Government Authority, including assistance through international organizations and the grant aid this time.
Japan intends to continue to extend positive assistance for the Middle East peace process.