Japan’s Prime Minister said the government has yet to decide whether it will reduce oil imports from Iran in line with U.S. sanctions.
Yoshihiko Noda’s comments on Friday retreated from the strong support voiced a day earlier by his Finance Minister. Jun Azumi said Japan would start reducing oil imports as soon as possible.
Mr. Noda described Mr. Azumi’s comments as a “personal view,” and said his government needs to first consult with businesses and banks about the sanctions.
Mr. Noda didn’t rule out Japan’s participation in the sanctions effort. He said at a news conference he shared strong concerns about Iran’s nuclear program.
