Abu Dhabi, 17 March 2022 (TDI): The Prime Minister of Japan Fumio Kishida called the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed on Tuesday via phone and discussed the strategic relations of UAE and Japan.
Prime Minister Kishida said at the outset that the UAE is a key partner for Japan. In this regard, he emphasized his commitment to strengthening ties with UAE. Further, he congratulated Sheikh Mohammed on the success of Expo 2020 Dubai. Sheikh Mohamed responded by expressing his renewed hopes for developing bilateral relations with Japan. He also thanked the Fumio Kishida for the participation of Japan in Expo 2020 Dubai.
Both heads of the state have discussed ways to strengthen the ties between their states, especially in the energy industry.
Discussion on Ukraine crisis:
Both have discussed the diverse regional and international issues in which humanitarian crises in Ukraine, their repercussions, the significance of international action to end the war through diplomatic methods and to assist the affected civilians.
According to the Foreign Office of Japan, regarding the Ukraine crisis, both leaders has unanimously decided that UAE and Japan will continue to closely coordinate their responses as UAE is the current non–permanent member of the UN Security Council.
Besides, Prime Minister Kishida requested the UAE’s cordial and concentrated support in securing safe means for the evacuation of the Japanese nationals from Russia. In response, Sheikh Mohamed stated that the UAE is committed to closely cooperating with Japan.
On the elevated crude oil prices:
Furthermore, both leaders exchanged their views on the elevated crude oil prices in the wake of the situation in Ukraine. Prime Minister Kishida has also called for the UAE further to play a proactive role in the stabilization of the crude oil market as a member of the OPEC. Both leaders unanimously assured that the UAE and Japan will cooperate towards the stabilization of the international oil market.
Sheikh Mohamed reiterated the UAE’s desire to retain the energy security and the stability of global markets and to brace the robust relations with Japan in the sector of energy.
Mr Kishida has expressed his elation at his country’s close relations with the UAE and underlined Japan’s desire to strengthen these ties.
Last month, Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development emphasized that Japanese investors and entrepreneurs take benefit of investment opportunities and the ease of doing business in the capital.
Bilateral trade between the UAE and Japan reached $30.5 billion till last year so far. While UAE exports have been rising up to $24bn.
During the call, both heads unanimously opined to collaborate in the strategic relations of both states and the diverse ways to strengthen them at all levels.
