Japan-Luxembourg Relations

Minister Asselborn welcomed Minister Kishida on his visit to Luxembourg, stating that Japan was one of the most important countries in Asia. Minister Asselborn also acknowledged the long-standing and close relations between the Imperial Family of Japan and the Grand Ducal Family of Luxembourg, and the consistently friendly relations between Luxembourg and Japan.

Minister Kishida expressed his delight to realize the visit to Luxembourg to which he was invited, and stated that Prime Minister Bettel’s visit to Japan in July was extremely significant. Minister Kishida also stated he was pleased at the visit by the Keidanren (Japan Business Federation) mission to Luxembourg in October, which was realized as a result of the agreement reached during Prime Minister Bettel’s visit to Japan in July.

Both foreign ministers shared their delight at the long-standing and close relations between the Imperial Family of Japan and the Grand Ducal Family of Luxembourg. Furthermore, Minister Asselborn and Minister Kishida welcomed the recent frequent mutual visits of VIPs between both countries, while also confirming their intention to further strengthen economic relations between Japan and Luxembourg, which is one of the world’s leading financial centers.

Minister Kishida highlighted the importance of reaching an agreement in principle on the Japan-EU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) during this year as well as realizing an early conclusion of the Japan-EU Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA) . In response, Minister Asselborn expressedLuxembourg’s support in realizing an early conclusion of the Japan-EU EPA. Minister Kishida also requested Luxembourg’s cooperation, in its Presidency of the EU, for abolishing or easing restricitons on importing food and other items produced in Japan, including those from Fukushima Prefecuture. Minister Asselborn expressed his intention to cooperate to this end.

Minister Kishida mentioned the importance Japan places on the United Nations (UN) Security Council reform, and welcomed the appointment of H.E. Ms. Sylvie Lucas, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Luxembourg to the United Nations, as the Cahir of the Intergovernmental Negotiations on the UN Security Council Reform. Minister Kishida also expressed his hope for achieving concrete outcomes during the current session. Both foreign ministers confirmed the intention of both countries to work closely together for the early realization of the UN Security Council reform.

Minister Asselborn and Minister Kishida also exchanged opinions on the issue of refugees in Europe.