Japan-ASEAN Relations
Prime Minister Kishida received a courtesy call by Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary General of ASEAN
October 24, 2023
Prime Minister Kishida receiving a courtesy call
(Photo: Cabinet Public Affairs Office)
On October 24, 2023, commencing at 4:45 pm, for approximately 15 minutes, Prime Minister KISHIDA Fumio, received a courtesy call by H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary General of ASEAN, during his visit to Japan. The overview of the courtesy call is as follows:
- At the outset, Prime Minister Kishida expressed his appreciation for ASEAN Secretary-General KAO Kim Hourn's efforts to strengthen ASEAN-Japan relations. Touching upon that Japan was the first country in the world to initiate dialogue with ASEAN and this year marks the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, Prime Minister Kishida also emphasized that Japan and ASEAN are not only major trade and investment partners, but also trusted partners with a "heart to heart" connection based on broad exchanges among peoples.
- Prime Minister Kishida also expressed his hope that the Commemorative Summit for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation in December would pass on this close relationship to the next generation and show the world that Japan and ASEAN are determined to work hand in hand to create a sustainable and prosperous future, not only for the region but for the world as a whole.
- In response, ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn expressed his appreciation for Japan's cooperation with ASEAN over the years and his high expectations for further strengthening ASEAN-Japan relations on the occasion of the 50th commemorative year.
- Both sides concurred in cooperating closely to accelerate preparations for the Commemorative Summit in December.