Japan-Slovakia Relations
Meeting between Foreign Minister HAYASHI and H.E. Mr. Rastislav KÁČER, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic
February 23, 2023
On February 23, commencing at 11:40 a.m. (local time; February 24, 1:40 a.m. JST) for approximately 35 minutes, Mr. HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs, who is visiting New York,U.S. to attend the UN General Assembly Emergency Special Session on Ukraine and the Security Council Ministerial Debate, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Rastislav KÁČER, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic.The overview is as follows.
- At the outset, Minister Hayashi noted that this year marks 30th anniversary of Slovakia’s founding and the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Slovakia, and expressed desire to deepen cooperation in a wide range of fields with Slovakia, an important partner that shares fundamental values.
- Minister Hayashi stated that amid the protracted aggression by Russia against Ukraine, it is more important than ever for like-minded countries to work together towards maintaining and strengthening the international order based on the rule of law. Minister Hayashi also mentioned that, as the only country to have ever suffered atomic bombings during wartime, Japan absolutely cannot accept Russia’s nuclear threats, let alone its use of nuclear weapon under any circumstances. Minister Hayashi also expressed his respect for Slovakia's continued support for Ukraine as a neighbor country, including acceptance of displaced persons and military assistance, and explained Japan's support for Ukraine and affected countries including neighboring countries. Both Ministers confirmed to further cooperate in effective implementation of sanctions and reconstruction assistance to Ukraine.
- Minister Hayashi explained that under the severe security environment, Japan formulated the new National Security Strategy at the end of last year. Minister Káčer welcomed the strategy.
- Both sides exchanged views on the situation in the East and South China Seas, dealing withNorth Korea including on the nuclear and missile issues and the abductions issue, strengthening the functions of the United Nations including Security Council reform, and "V4+Japan" cooperation in view of current Slovakia's presidency of the V4, and confirmed that they will continue to work closely together.