TOKYO: Japan's Nikkei set a closing record high on Friday, capping a third consecutive weekly gain, as enthusiasm over technology sector earnings offset uncertainty over a potential peace deal in the Middle East.

The benchmark Nikkei 225 Index rose 0.97% to close at an unprecedented 59,716.18. The gauge rose 2.1% on the week. The broader Topix eked out a 0.01% advance to end at 3,716.59.