Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney finalized a comprehensive strategic partnership Friday, establishing enhanced cooperation across defense, economic, and energy sectors amid rising concerns over global oil supplies due to Middle Eastern conflicts.
The two leaders emphasized the critical nature of energy security during these times of “geopolitical uncertainty,” as outlined in an official statement from Japan’s Foreign Ministry.
Meeting in Tokyo, Takaichi and Carney committed to collaborative efforts in diversifying energy sources and expanding trade relationships to strengthen energy supply networks, according to the ministry’s published roadmap.
“The world is at a turning point. We see the manifestations in the Middle East. We see it everywhere,” Carney stated during their joint press briefing.
This marked Carney’s inaugural visit to Japan since assuming office last year, occurring as Middle Eastern warfare raises alarm over petroleum shipments passing through Iran’s Strait of Hormuz. During his Australia trip earlier this week, Carney advocated for reducing tensions in the Iranian conflict.
The leaders also established plans for bilateral discussions on economic security and cybersecurity policies, addressing China’s increasing assertiveness in commercial and military spheres throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
Tokyo and Ottawa will begin negotiations toward a defense agreement designed to streamline military visit procedures, joint training exercises, and other collaborative operations.
Both nations plan to enhance cooperation between their defense industries as Japan works to expand its limited defense export sector, supporting Takaichi’s initiative to strengthen Japan’s military capabilities and arms manufacturing to improve partnerships with allied countries.
On Friday morning, Takaichi’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party and coalition partner Japan Innovation Party presented a proposal to eliminate restrictions on lethal weapons exports, marking another departure from Japan’s post-war pacifist policies. Government officials expect formal approval of this proposal within the coming months.
