Japan-Germany Relations
Japan-Germany Summit Meeting
(Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office)
(Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office)
On Monday, November 16, commencing at 12:40 p.m. (local time) for approximately 20 minutes, Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, held a Japan-Germany Summit Meeting with H.E. Dr. Angela Merkel, Federal Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, during his visit to Antalya, the Republic of Turkey to attend the G20 Summit. The overview is as follows.
1. Opening Remarks
Prime Minister Abe expressed his condolences concerning the recent passing of former Chancellor Helmut Schmidt of the Federal Republic of Germany. He also stated that the series of terror attacks occurred in Paris are an assault against the values that Japan and Germany share, and that Japan stands with the international community in firmly condemning these attacks. The two leaders affirmed that they will cooperate closely as the handover of the Summit presidency approaches, and amid a variety of issues, including terrorism, the situation in Ukraine, mass influx of refugees and migrants, and the rule of law in the international community.
2. Situation in Ukraine
Prime Minister Abe expressed his great appreciation for Germany’s efforts to peacefully resolve the situation in Ukraine. Federal Chancellor Merkel stated that while international concern has been concentrated on the issue of Syria, the issue of Ukraine should not be neglected and it is important to resolve this issue in a peaceful manner. Federal Chancellor Merkel then expressed her intention to collaborate with Japan, the nextG7 chair country, regarding this issue.
3. Other Issues
Prime Minister Abe conveyed his respect regarding Germany’s initiatives related to mass influx of refugees and migrants, expressed Japan’s solidarity with Europe, and explained Japan’s support.
The two leaders exchanged opinions regarding the situation in East Asia. Prime Minister Abe stated that Japan will vigorously advance its international contributions in the area of security, and that he intends to strengthen Japan-Germany and Japan-EU cooperation in this area. Federal Chancellor Merkel agreed, and stated that this is an excellent idea.