Japan, 26 October 2023(TDI): On 25 October Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio met with the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Denmark, Mette Frederiksen, for a Japan-Denmark summit meeting followed by a working dinner.
In a warm and cordial reception, Prime Minister Kishida welcomed Prime Minister Frederiksen of Denmark to Japan for her first official visit.
Both leaders expressed their pleasure at the continued development of the strong relationship between Japan and Denmark as strategic partners, a bond initially solidified by the Joint Statement issued at the leaders’ level in 2014.
During their meeting, Prime Minister Kishida conveyed his eagerness to collaborate with Denmark across various sectors, including security and the economy.
They discussed joint efforts to support the “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” initiative and address international affairs.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Kishida announced the issuance of a Joint Statement and a Joint Strategic Work Plan (JSWP) aimed at further strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations, underscoring the commitment to implementing concrete cooperation initiatives outlined in these documents.
In response, Prime Minister Frederiksen expressed her hopes for deeper Japan-Denmark relations and conveyed her admiration for Japan’s leadership as the current G7 Presidency.
Both leaders recognized the strengths of Japan and Denmark in the digital, green, and innovation sectors. They celebrated by signing a Memorandum of Cooperation on Science and Technology Innovation covering quantum science, digital, and life sciences.
In addition, the Memorandum of Cooperation on hydrogen and ammonia and the Statement of Intent on offshore wind power were signed, fostering optimism for the growth of economic relations between the two countries through such bilateral cooperation.
The discharge of ALPS-treated water into the sea was also discussed. Prime Minister Kishida assured Japan would continue its diligent efforts to enhance transparency and seek a more profound understanding from the international community.
Prime Minister Frederiksen commended Japan for its transparent approach to this matter.
Recognizing the evolving and challenging international security environment, Prime Minister Kishida stressed the inseparability of European and Indo-Pacific security. He welcomed the increased interest and engagement of European countries, the EU, and NATO in the Indo-Pacific.
Both leaders emphasized preserving and strengthening the free and open international order based on the rule of law. They condemned unilateral attempts to change the status quo through force.
Regarding Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, both leaders expressed their shared conviction about the importance of maintaining severe sanctions against Russia and extending strong support to Ukraine. They reaffirmed their commitment to achieving a just and lasting peace in Ukraine as soon as possible.
The leaders also deliberated on regional issues in East Asia. They pledged to coordinate closely with North Korea, including its intensifying nuclear and missile activities and abduction issues.
Prime Minister Kishida highlighted that peace and stability in the Middle East are integral to global peace and tranquillity. He unequivocally condemned recent terror attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian militants.
Japan intends to collaborate with relevant nations and actively engage in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation and improve the humanitarian conditions in Gaza. Both leaders pledged to continue working closely on this issue.
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In addition, both leaders emphasized the importance of strengthening the United Nations, including Security Council reform. They committed to working together to realize a “world without nuclear weapons.”
The two leaders underscored their commitment to economic security and joint effort to realize a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific.” They also affirmed their intention to deepen cooperation on various issues related to the Arctic.
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