Japan imposes sanctions on Iran

Tokyo: Japan will impose sanctions on Iran in an attempt to block the country's nuclear development programme, Tokyo's top government spokesman said on Friday.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yasuhisa Shiozaki told a news conference, "Resolute action is needed over the Iran nuclear issue from the viewpoint of maintaining nuclear non-proliferation, and in view of the impact on the North Korean nuclear issue and peace in the Middle East."

The measures approved by the Japanese government include freezing the financial assets of 10 entities and 12 individuals believed to be involved in Iran's nuclear programme.

Bans will also be imposed on the transfer of materials, technology and funds that could enhance Iran's nuclear activity. Tokyo also decided to ban Iranian imports of materials related to nuclear research.

Shiozaki said the measures, which will take effect on Saturday, are based on a resolution adopted by the UN Security Council in December to impose sanctions on Iran's trade in nuclear materials and technology.

The resolution states that Iran must end all research on uranium enrichment, which can lead to the production of fuel for nuclear power plants as well as for bombs, and halt all research and development of methods of producing or delivering atomic weapons.