Japan-Türkiye Relations
Japan-Turkey Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
March 19, 2022
On March 19th, commencing at 10:30 AM (local time, 04:30 PM JST) for approximately 70 minutes, Mr. HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Mevlüt ÇAVUŞOĞLU, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey during his visit to Turkey. The overview of the meeting is as follows.
- At the outset, Minister Hayashi stated that he seeks to further deepen the friendly relations between Japan and Turkey toward the year 2024, the 100th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
- Regarding the situation in Ukraine, the Ministers concurred that the Russia’s aggression against Ukraine infringed upon Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and was a serious violation of international law prohibiting the use of force. They also shared the views that this aggression was totally unacceptable and shaked the foundation of the international order. Minister ÇAVUŞOĞLU provided a detailed explanation on Turkey's diplomatic efforts based on its close relations with both Ukraine and Russia, and Minister Hayashi expressed his sincere gratitude and respect for the efforts made by Turkey. They confirmed that the two countries will continue to closely cooperate and coordinate their undertakings in the international arena in order to protect the foundation of the international order. Also, the Ministers shared the importance of the international community’s concerted response to Russia.
- The Ministers concurred on closely cooperating in the field of disarmament and non-proliferation through Non-proliferation and Disarmament Initiative (NPDI).
- With regard to the bilateral relations rooted in long-standing ties of friendship, the Ministers confirmed to hold the first meeting of maritime consultations in the first half of this year to discuss specific cooperation. Furthermore, the Ministers concurred to accelerate negotiations toward the early conclusion of the Japan-Turkey Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) and the Japan-Turkey Social Security Agreement, and to aim for the opening of the Turkish-Japanese University of Science and Technology in 2023, which is 100th anniversary of the founding of the country. In addition, Minister Hayashi expressed his intention to expand cooperation in new areas including space and climate change.
- The Ministers also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East including Afghanistan, and on the situation in East Asia, including China and North Korea, and affirmed that they would continue to coordinate on issues such as dealing with North Korea, including the abductions issue.