Japan, Canada to Create Cyber, Economic Security Consultative Bodies

Tokyo, March 6 (Jiji Press)–Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and her Canadian counterpart, Mark Carney, agreed Friday to establish bilateral consultative bodies for cybersecurity and economic security. At their meeting in Tokyo, the two leaders also confirmed that Japan and Canada will elevate their relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership. After the meeting, they signed a joint statement including the agreements. Japan and Canada are members of the Group of Seven forum of major industrial nations, and both have close relations with the United States, another G-7 member. In recent years, Canada has been increasing its engagement in the Indo-Pacific region. Takaichi and Carney also agreed to further strengthen their countries’ security cooperation, such as expanding joint exercises between Japan’s Self-Defense Forces and the Canadian military, aiming to realize a free and open Indo-Pacific. Ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to China from late this month, Takaichi and Carney reaffirmed their views regarding China as their countries share the fundamental values such as the rule of law. They are also believed to have exchanged views on the Middle East situation at a time when the conflict between U.S.-Israeli forces and Iran is intensifying. The joint statement stipulates that Japan and Canada will strengthen exchanges, including regular mutual visits by their leaders and ministers. Based on the statement, road maps for cooperation in six areas, including defense, economic security and trade, were compiled. Japan is eager to enhance cooperation with Canada, which is rich in important minerals, such as nickel and lithium, has vibrant agricultural and livestock industries, is one of the world’s largest crude oil, uranium and natural gas producers, and is a member of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, which also includes the United States and Britain. Carney arrived in Tokyo after a tour of India and Australia, marking his first visit to Japan since he took office in March last year. Takaichi welcomed his visit at a joint press conference, saying, “This trip shows Prime Minister Carney’s emphasis on the Indo-Pacific region and is therefore reassuring.” In response, Carney said he hopes that the relationship between Japan and Canada will become stronger. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]