Japan watching markets closely, prepared to take steps, finance minister says

TOKYO, March 4 (Reuters) - Japanese Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama said on Wednesday that the government is closely watching financial markets and is prepared to take decisive steps on foreign exchange, including currency intervention.

"It is desirable for currencies to move in a stable manner reflecting fundamentals, and this is already a shared understanding among the G7," Katayama told parliament.

"And between Japan and the U.S., we have stated that if developments deviate from there, decisive measures could be taken, and such measures include intervention," she added.