Japan-Kazakhstan Relations

Foreign Minister Kishida stated that Japan and Kazakhstan celebrate the 25th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations this year as well as a year in which both countries are serving as members of the United Nations Security Council, and expressed Japan’s intention to further strengthen bilateral relations by working together with Foreign Minister Abdrakhmanov. Foreign Minister Abdrakhmanov stated that the bilateral relationship is developing into a strategic partnership through mutual visits by the leaders of both countries, and expressed the desire to further expand and develop the relationship.

Foreign Minister Kishida stated that bilateral relations have reached new heights since the visit to Japan by President Nazarbayev in November 2016 and said that he intends to steadily follow up on the visit. Furthermore, Foreign Minister Kishida expressed his hope for the further expansion and development of the Japan-Kazakhstan relationship through Expo Astana 2017, which will be held this year. Foreign Minister Abdrakhmanov expressed his hope for the entry of Japanese businesses into the Kazakh market, in such areas as non-petrochemicals, water, and transport and logistics.

Concerning the situation in North Korea, Foreign Minister Kishida stated that North Korea’s launch of yet another ballistic missile immediately after the United Nations Security Council held discussions on the denuclearization of North Korea is a direct challenge to the international community and can absolutely not be tolerated. Furthermore, Foreign Minister Kishida stated his intention to work together with Kazakhstan to ensure that North Korea renounces its nuclear and missile programs, including ensuring the effectiveness of the United Nations Security Council resolutions. Foreign Minister Kishida also sought understanding and support regarding the abductions issue. In response, Foreign Minister Abdrakhmanov said that the positions of the two countries are completely in agreement as he stated at the United Nations Security Council ministerial meeting. Furthermore, Foreign Minister Abdrakhmanov expressed his hope that Japan and Kazakhstan will work together through their permanent missions to the United Nations.