On April 16, Mr. HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Antonio TAJANI, Vice-President of the Council of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Italian Republic, who is visiting Japan to attend the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Karuizawa, Nagano.
At the outset, Minister Hayashi stated that he was pleased to welcome Minister Tajani to Karuizawa, noting the importance for both countries, which holds the G7 Presidency of this year and the next, to further enhance collaboration as strategic partners.
With regard to bilateral relations, referring to the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP), Minister Hayashi expressed his expectations for further cooperation in the security field. In addition, the two ministers concurred to cooperate towards the signing of the Agreement on film co-production. Minister Hayashi reiterated his request for Italy’s cooperation towards the early lifting of import measures on Japanese food products by the EU.
The two ministers affirmed that the G7 would continue to make a united response to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. In addition, the two ministers exchanged views concerning the situation in East Asia, and concurred to continue to coordinate closely in addressing issues related to China, and in responding to North Korea, including on nuclear and missile-related issues, as well as the abductions issue.
The two ministers confirmed to continue to work together closely towards the success of the G7 Hiroshima Summit.
