Japan-France Relations

Today, on November 15, commencing at 4:30 p.m. for approximately 20 minutes, the Embassy of France in Tokyo hosted a memorial service in the wake of a series of terror attacks which occurred on November 14 (in the night of November 13 local time) in Paris, France, causing numerous casualties. On behalf of the Government of Japan, Mr. Yoshihide Suga, Chief Cabinet Secretary, attended the service.

Prior to the service, Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga signed a Condolence Book in the official residence of the Ambassador of France in Tokyo. Mr. Suga stated to H.E. Mr. Thierry Dana, Ambassador of French Republic to Japan, that he was strongly shocked and outraged by the inhuman and despicable acts of terrorism that resulted in many victims, Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga extended his condolences to the families and victims of the terror attacks and also conveyed the will of solidarity that the Government and people of Japan always stand by the Government and people of France in such time of difficulties. Moreover, Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga stated that Japan strongly condemns any act of terrorism and would cooperate with France and the international society to eradicate such acts of terrorism.

In addition, prior to the memorial service, Mr. Fumio Kishida, Minister for Foreign Affairs, also visited the official residence of the Ambassador of France in Tokyo to sign the Condolence Book and extend his condolences and will of solidarity to Ambassador Dana. Minister Kishdia stated that such acts of terrorism are challenges against the values shared by Japan and France and that Japan stands by France.

Furthermore, Mr. Seiji Kihara, State Minister for Foreign Affairs, and Mr. Hitoshi Kikawada, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, also signed the Condolence Book.