Japan-Kuwait Relations
Japan–Kuwait Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
July 7, 2026
On July 7, commencing at 10:30 a.m. local time (4:30 p.m. on July 7, Japan time) for 30 minutes, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who is visiting Türkiye on the occasion of the NATO Summit, held a meeting with H.E. Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kuwait.
- At the outset, Minister MOTEGI stated that he is pleased to have the opportunity to meet with Minister Jarrah in person, following their telephone call at the end of June. Minister MOTEGI also stated that, under the “Comprehensive and Strategic Partnership”, Japan wishes to advance concrete cooperation with Kuwait not only in the energy sector but also across a wide range of fields.
- The two ministers concurred on advancing cooperation in the three following areas of priority.
- Electricity and Water Sectors
・Facilitating restoration work by Japanese engineers at electricity and water related facilities damaged by Iranian attacks
・Strengthening cooperation through the policy dialogue on electricity and water issues - Direct Investment
・Holding investment seminars based on the “Memorandum of Cooperation in the field of Direct Investment Promotion” signed in 2025, and expanding economic relations between the two countries across a wide range of fields
・Improving the business environment for Japanese companies in Kuwait - People-to-People Exchanges
・Cooperation toward the operation of direct flights
- Electricity and Water Sectors
- Furthermore, Minister MOTEGI emphasized that Japan aims to update the “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” so that countries can enhance resilience and capability to have their freedom to decide for themselves, and become more prosperous and resilient together. Minister MOTEGI added that Japan wishes to share this vision and deepen coordination with Kuwait. In response, Minister Jarrah expressed his desire to deepen cooperation with Japan as well.
- Regarding the situation surrounding Iran, Minister MOTEGI reemphasized the importance of free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, and the two ministers confirmed their shared opposition to the imposition of any fees for transiting the Strait. Minister MOTEGI also pointed out the importance of the IAEA’s role in resolving the Iranian nuclear issue, and the two ministers concurred to maintain close coordination between their two countries on the Iranian nuclear issue.
- Both Ministers confirmed that they would continue close coordination in their response to North Korea, including its nuclear and missile issues and the abductions issue.