[03/September/2010]

WASHINGTON, Sept 3 (Saba) --U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on Friday praised Japans announcement of new sanctions launched against Iran as a "step forward" towards combating Tehrans nuclear proliferation efforts, according to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA).

In a statement released by the State Department, Clinton said Japan marks "a significant step forward in the international communitys efforts to combat proliferation and prevent Irans development of nuclear weapons." She lauded Japans for joining other nations Australia, Canada, Norway and the European Union in implementing sanctions against Iran for refusing to cease its nuclear program, many believe is for the purpose of creating a nuclear arsenal.

However, Iran contends that its program is for peaceful purposes. Japan's new sanctions include a freeze on the assets of 88 companies, banks, state agencies and other entities and of 24 people linked to Iran's nuclear program.

Japan also said it would suspend any new oil and gas investments in Iran, but there are no plans to restrict imports of crude oil from the Islamic republic, the fourth-biggest oil supplier to Japan.

Clinton also encouraged other states to follow Japans lead and impose "robust measures" as part of an international community effort to halt Irans program.

Saba