On November 1, Josep Borrell, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, and Japan’s Foreign Minister, Takeshi Iwaya, held the inaugural EU-Japan Strategic Dialogue in Tokyo. During this dialogue, they announced the EU-Japan Security and Defence Partnership, marking Japan as the first Indo-Pacific country to establish such a framework with the EU. This partnership aims to enhance cooperation in maritime security, participation in EU missions, cyber issues, counter-terrorism, non-proliferation, and defence industry initiatives.
“I am extremely pleased to be here with Minister Iwaya to announce the conclusion of this security and defence partnership between the European Union and Japan,” Borrell said. He described it as “historical and very timely”.
High Representative Borrell and Foreign Minister Iwaya emphasised their commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity. They highlighted the importance of collaboration on regional and global security, particularly in the interconnected contexts of Europe and the Indo-Pacific. Both officials welcomed the European Union as a crucial partner in Asia.
The two ministers reaffirmed their support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression, condemning third-party support for this conflict.
They expressed serious concerns regarding Russia’s military ties with North Korea and addressed ongoing tensions in the East China Sea and South China Sea, opposing any unilateral actions that could disrupt regional stability. The officials underscored the strategic significance of maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait for global security and prosperity.
In addition, Ministers Borrell and Iwaya voiced deep concern over the escalating violence in the Middle East. They called for an immediate ceasefire along the Israel-Lebanon border and in Gaza, stressing the importance of releasing all hostages and ensuring unhindered humanitarian access. They advocated for a renewed focus on a two-state solution and emphasised the need to protect civilians and peacekeepers in conflict zones, particularly in line with UN mandates.
