Europe

　On September 9, commencing at 1:00 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. (local time), Minister for Foreign Affairs Fumio Kishida, who was visiting the Federal Republic of Germany, held a Japan-Germany Foreign Ministers' Meeting, combined with lunch, with H.E. Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, Germany. The overview of the meeting is as follows. Ahead of the meeting, Minister Steinmeier invited Minister Kishida to his office, and their relationship of personal trust deepened. Subsequently the two ministers browsed archived documents on Japan-Germany relations held by Germany's Federal Foreign Office.

　Minister Kishida said that based on the common values shared by Japan and Germany, Germany is a European partner that Japan can trust in tackling global challenges, and in particular Germany is exercising leadership in dealing with the recent Ukraine situation. He also said that he is honored to be able to visit Germany immediately after being reappointed as Minister for Foreign Affairs. Minister Steinmeier welcomed Minister Kishida's visit to Germany and said Japan is an extremely trustworthy partner, and that the frequent holding of the meetings is evidence that the bilateral relationship is at a high level.

　This was the third time Minister Kishida had held a direct meeting with Minister Steinmeier, and based on their relationship of personal trust, they exchanged views frankly on making the relationship between the two countries genuinely fruitful.
　Specifically, an in-depth discussion took place concerning areas of cooperation, beginning with cooperation in the area of security that was confirmed at the Japan-German Summit Meeting in April this year. The two sides also exchanged views on common aspects in the Government of Japan's proactive contribution to peace policy and Germany's proactive contribution approach.

(1) Ukraine/Russia situation

　Both sides shared the view that where the situation in Ukraine is concerned all the relevant parties should do their utmost to secure a lasting ceasefire and achieve peace. Minister Steinmeier explained Germany's Ukraine policies, and expressed appreciation for the measures Japan has taken toward Russia in cooperation with the G7. Minister Kishida said he highly appreciates Germany's contributions and explained the Government of Japan's support for Ukraine. Additionally, in order to respond more appropriately to the Ukraine situation, although Japan and Germany have also been cooperating closely as G7 partners thus far, both ministers continued that a framework will also be established to hold bilateral discussions between Japan and Germany regarding Ukraine. The ministers also shared the view that they will cooperate in the area of support for Ukraine.

(2) Middle East situation

　With regard to the situation in Iraq and Syria, the ministers shared concerns regarding the activities of the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), which is expanding its influence in Iraq and Syria, along with exchanging views on regional affairs. Minister Steinmeier explained Germany's measures aimed at stabilizing Iraq. Regarding the situation in Gaza, both sides welcomed the ceasefire agreement mediated by Egypt, and shared the view that they will cooperate toward a lasting ceasefire and long-term stabilization in Gaza.

(3) East Asia situation

　Minister Kishida explained the severe security environment in East Asia and the Government of Japan's efforts, which emphasize dialogue, and he obtained the understanding and support of Minister Steinmeier.

　With regard to cooperation in multilateral frameworks, both ministers confirmed cooperation as G4 countries, including on United Nations Security Council reform, and cooperation on non-proliferation and disarmament.