Europe

• (1) Foreign Minister Kishida stated that Japan and Denmark share common interests as maritime nations, and he would like to promote further cooperation in the fields such as advanced efforts and approach by Denmark in the areas of medical care and renewable energies, ocean related issues and the Arctic. In response, Foreign Minister Lidegaard noted that the two countries’ approaches to promote further bilateral relations are identical. He also stated that both countries possess world-leading technologies and achievements in fields such as energy, life science and health, and sharing such knowledge would be extremely beneficial.
• (2) In addition, the two foreign ministers reaffirmed that the “Strategic Partnership for Growth and Innovation” which was agreed during the visit to Japan by Prime Minister last March, is important in order to further advance bilateral relations on both the economic and political aspects. They also agreed on making steady progress and to follow- up on this partnership.

Foreign Minister Kishida noted the importance of concluding the Japan-EU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) and Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA) at an earliest possible stage. In response, Foreign Minister Lidegaard expressed Denmark’s strong support on it. Both foreign ministers also shared the recognition on the importance of expanding cooperation through EU and NATO.

Foreign Minister Kishida and Foreign Minister Lidegaard shared the view that an affinity exists between the Japan’s Proactive Contribution to Peace and the integrated and comprehensive approach promoted by Denmark and the EU in the field of peacebuilding. Foreign Minister Lidegaard expressed his understanding and support for Japan’s Proactive Contribution to Peace. In addition, the foreign ministers affirmed continued cooperation on anti-piracy measures, and disarmament and non-proliferation, which both countries are proactively engaged in.

Both foreign ministers confirmed the importance of the role performed by the NB8, and agreed on further cooperation utilizing the NB8 framework in various fields including the Arctic Pole, peacebuilding and gender equality.

• (1) Foreign Minister Kishida and Foreign Minister Lidegaard exchanged views on the tense situation in Ukraine, and shared the recognition of importance the successful implementation of the Ukrainian presidential election. Both foreign ministers also agreed to continue to communicate closely, including supporting the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).
• (2) In addition, the two foreign ministers confirmed their continued support for Syria and Afghanistan while coordinating with the international community, and also exchanged views on the situation in East Asia.