Japan's industry minister is starting a three-day trip to Saudi Arabia and Oman on Sunday. He is seeking stronger ties with the Middle Eastern nations in areas such as energy, decarbonization and infrastructure.

Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Nishimura Yasutoshi is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia on Sunday and Monday. The country is Japan's largest crude oil supplier.

He is also set to travel to Oman, a liquefied natural gas producer, on Tuesday.

In Saudi Arabia, Nishimura is expected to meet the energy minister and other officials, and call for cooperation in stabilizing oil prices.

He also aims to confirm that the two countries will carry out joint projects on hydrogen and ammonia -- both next-generation sources of energy.

In Oman, Nishimura is expected to ask for cooperation in ensuring a stable supply of liquefied natural gas. LNG is used as fuel at thermal power stations and elsewhere. The current global balance of supply and demand is tight.

Ties with Arab nations are vital for Japan, as it relies on overseas suppliers for most of its crude oil and natural gas.

Nishimura's trip comes at a time when Beijing is seeking closer relations with Arab nations. China held its first summit with Arab states earlier this month.