Japan, Australia remain divided on whaling

Japanese Foreign Minister Katsuya Okada has held talks with Australian officials over Tokyo's research whaling program. Japan insists its whaling is legal, but Australia remains opposed.

Australian Foreign Minister Stephen Smith says his country believes that time is running out for whales. He's calling for firm action.

Australian Foreign Minister Stephen Smith said, "Australia will pursue before the International Whaling Commission a proposal which would see whaling in the great Southern Oceans phased out over a reasonable period of time."

Katsuya Okada called Australia's stance "unfortunate." He says Japan will fight any court challenge to its whaling program.

Katsuya Okada said, "Should court action become a reality, Japan will seek to represent its case that their activities are legal and accepted by IWC."

New Zealand has indicated it may join Australia in seeking legal action against Japan if negotiation fails. But its first choice is a diplomatic solution.

New Zealand PM John Key said, "And I think that's actually what Australia wants to do, is find a diplomatic solution."

Smith says if an agreement isn't reached, Australia will seek arbitration in the International Court of Justice at The Hague before the next whaling season.