Prime Ministers of Japan, UK meet on sidelines of UNGA 77

By
Sabrina Sohail
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Prime Ministers of Japan and UK hold bilateral meeting on the sidelines of UNGA 77
Prime Ministers of Japan and UK hold bilateral meeting on the sidelines of UNGA 77

New York, 21 September 2022 (TDI): Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and Japan, Liz Truss and Kishida Fumio met on Tuesday. The two leaders held a working lunch summit to discuss bilateral relations on the sidelines of UNGA 77.

During the meeting, prime Minister Kishida expressed his deepest condolences for the passing of the UK’s monarch, Queen Elizabeth II. The Prime Minister noted that the Queen had played an important role in promoting global peace and prosperity.

He highlighted that during the 70-year-reign of Queen Elizabeth II, Japan and the UK enjoyed positive engagements and partnerships with each other. Correspondingly, Prime Minister Truss thanked the warm words of condolences from Prime Minister Kishida and the people of Japan.

In response, she also expressed her deepest condolences for the passing of former Prime Minster Shinzo Abe.

The longest-reigning monarch of the UK, Queen Elizabeth died on the 8th of September, 2022. She was buried earlier this week after the country observed a 10-day mourning period. The royals of Japan also attended the Queen’s funeral.

Also Read: Royals of Japan attend Queen Elizabeth II’s Funeral

On the other hand, the former Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe was killed on 8 July 2022. He was murdered while delivering a speech for a political campaign.

Discussion on bilateral relations

During the meeting, Prime Minister of Japan pointed out the growing relations between Japan and the UK. He said that this is because of the UK upholding its Indo-Pacific tilt.

Additionally, the Japanese Prime Minister expressed his wish to address various issues of the international community with Prime Minister Truss on the basis of these robust bilateral relations.

As a response, Prime Minister Truss stated that Japan is an important partner for the UK. She also expressed her intention to further strengthen these ties.

Furthermore, the two leaders discussed holding an early signature of a Reciprocal Access Agreement, as well as to reach a mutual understanding on the cooperation regarding the future combat air system.

The two leaders also welcomed the smooth implementation of the Japan-UK Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. They also discussed deepening cooperation on economic security and energy among others.

Discussion on international affairs

Prime Ministers of Japan and the UK also exchanged their views on a number of international issues. In this regard, Prime Minister Kishida of Japan stated that the security of Europe and the Indo-Pacific is inseparable.

Moreover, they also discussed working together to address Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. The two leaders affirmed the importance of continuing the sanctions against Russia and support for Ukraine through close collaboration with the international community.

Additionally, the Prime ministers of Japan and the UK also shared their concern over unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force in the East and South China Seas.

At the same time, the two leaders reaffirmed their continued collaboration in dealing with North Korea regarding the nuclear and missile issues as well as the abductions issue.

In concluding their meeting, both sides affirmed strengthening cooperation in the future. Moreover, Prime Minister Truss affirmed to work together under Japan’s G7 Presidency and non-permanent membership of the UN Security Council next year.

Also Read: Japan at 77th Session of UNGA

UNGA 77

The leaders of the UK and Japan met on the sidelines of the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The UNGA 77 is headed by Csaba Korosi.

High-level meetings for UNGA 77 started on 19 September and will continue til 23 September. During this time period, representatives of states will hold discussions on numerous global issues. This includes addressing food and health security as well as the implementation of policies related to climate change.