Japan-Sweden Relations
Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Fukazawa Attends a reception to mark Sweden’s accession to NATO
April 24, 2024
On April 24, Mr. FUKAZAWA Yoichi, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs attended a reception to mark Sweden’s accession to NATO at the International House of Japan. The overview is as follows.
- Following an opening remark by H.E. Mr. Pereric Högberg, Ambassador of Sweden to Japan and a remark by Mr. KIHARA Minoru, Minister of Defense, Parliamentary Vice-Minister Fukazawa delivered his remark and gave a toast.
- Parliamentary Vice-Minister Fukazawa stated that Japan and Sweden are partners who share values and principles such as freedom, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, and that Japan supports Sweden's accession to NATO as the international community becomes increasingly severe and cooperation among like-minded nations is more important than ever.
- Furthermore, Parliamentary Vice-Minister Fukazawa mentioned that Japan would like to promote cooperation with five Nordic countries under “Japan’s Nordic Diplomacy Initiative,” focusing on (1) the Arctic and Ocean, (2) Gender equality including WPS, (3) Strengthening economic relations, including Green, Digital and Science & Technology and (4) Security and Defense Cooperation. He also expressed his wish for the further deepening and development of Japan-Sweden relations.