Japan-EU Relations
Japan-EU Foreign Ministers' Meeting
February 19, 2022
On February 19, commencing at 10:05 a.m. (local time; same day, 6:05 p.m. JST) for approximately 25 minutes, Mr. HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who was visiting Germany to attend the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Josep Borrell Fontelles, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Vice-President of the European Commission. An overview of the meeting is as follows.
- At the outset, Minister Hayashi stated that he was delighted to meet High Representative Borrell in person for the first time to cooperate on the urgent issue concerning Ukraine and the realization of a “free and open Indo-Pacific (FOIP).” In response, High Representative Borrell stated that Japan is an important partner in the Indo-Pacific region and that he would like to promote cooperation in areas such as connectivity and security.
- They affirmed their consistent support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, monitoring the situation around Ukraine with grave concern. They confirmed that any unilateral change of the status quo by force is never acceptable, and they will continue to work closely together towards easing tensions. In addition, High Representative Borrell expressed his gratitude for the diversion of LNG shipment handled by Japanese corporations to Europe.
- They concurred to strengthen and promote Japan-EU cooperation across a wide range of areas, looking ahead to the next Japan-EU Summit meeting. In addition, Minister Hayashi requested the early lifting of import measures on Japanese food products by the EU.