Japan-France Relations
Japan-France Foreign Minister’s Meeting
November 9, 2026
On November 9, commencing at 1:50 p.m. local time (9:50 p.m., Japan time) for approximately 25 minutes, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who is visiting Paris, France to attend the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, held a meeting with Jean-Noël BARROT, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic.
- At the outset, Minister Barrot stated that Japan and France are “exceptional partners” which share values and principles, and expressed his hope to further strengthen close cooperation between Japan and France, which share common values and principles, amid the challenging international situation. In response, Minister Motegi stated that he attaches great importance to Japan’s relationship with France which is also an Indo-Pacific nation. He further stated that, amid growing uncertainty surrounding the international order, he hopes for Japan and France to further strengthen coordination and work together, including at the G7, to address various challenges facing the international community.
- Minister MOTEGI also conveyed Japan’s serious concerns about the EU’s Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA) building on the discussions between the leaders of Japan and France, and once again requested that appropriate action be taken from the French side. The two Ministers concurred to continue close consultations including between Japan and France on this matter.
- The two Ministers also exchanged views and concurred in continuing to work closely together on various issues facing the international community. These issues include the situation in the Indo-Pacific, such as their policies toward North Korea, including on the nuclear and missile issues as well as the abductions issue, and the situation in Ukraine.