Japan, Turkey leaders voice opposition to toll charge on Hormuz passage

TOKYO - Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday voiced their opposition to the collection of transit fees on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, affirming their close collaboration amid stalled U.S.-Iranian negotiations.

Speaking to reporters after their phone talks, Takaichi emphasized the importance of "ensuring free and safe navigation" through the strait "without any additional costs," to which Erdogan said in response that his views on the key energy transportation artery are "entirely consistent" with hers.