Japan-Australia Bilateral Foreign Ministers’ Meeting

June 6, 2007
Japanese

On June 6 (Wed), Mr. Taro Aso, Minister for Foreign Affairs, held talks with Mr. Alexander Downer, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia, now visiting Japan, for about 30 minutes from 16:45. The gist of the meeting is as follows:

1. Both Ministers confirmed the results of the visit by Australian Prime Minister Howard last March, and welcomed the Japan-Australia Joint Foreign and Defence Ministerial Dialogue which will be held for the first time based on the Japan-Australia Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation which was agreed by both Prime Ministers. Both Foreign Ministers agreed to continue cooperating in enhancing Japan-Australian cooperation in the security field.

2. Regarding the EPA/FTA negotiation, Mr. Downer welcomed the holding of the first meeting, and Mr. Aso said that he would like to continue constructive discussions, while bearing in mind each others’ sensitivities, especially recognizing the importance of agriculture to Japan.

3. Regarding the Trilateral Strategic Dialogue (TSD) among Japan, Australia and the U.S., Mr. Aso said that it is an important and effective framework to deal with global and Asia-Pacific regional issues. Both Ministers agreed to promote trilateral cooperation, while taking account of holding the third round of the Ministerial Meeting of the TSD.

(END)

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