Japan-Canada Relations
Japan-Canada Summit Meeting
November 18, 2015


On November 18, commencing at 1:25 p.m. (2:25 p.m. Japan time) for approximately 30 minutes, Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, had a Japan-Canada Summit Meeting with Mr. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada during his visit to Manila, the Republic of the Philippines, to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders' Meeting. The overview of the meeting is as follows.
1 Opening remarks
- Prime Minister Abe congratulated Prime Minister Trudeau on his appointment, explained that he hopes to further develop bilateral relationship with Canada, that shares fundamental values with Japan, He stated that he looks forward to welcoming Prime Minister Trudeau and his wife at next year's G7 Ise-Shima Summit.
- In response, Prime Minister Trudeau referred to his previous visits to Japan and stated that he is looking forward to participating in his first G7 Summit next year.
- Prime Minister Abe expressed the view that the acts of terrorism that recently occurred in Paris are challenge against universal values, and the international community should unite in condemning them. Prime Minister Abe stated that Japan will work closely with the international community, including Canada, to work on counterterrorism.
- Following Prime Minister Abe's comment, Prime Minister Trudeau stated that Canada has a close relationship with France and the recent terrorist attack is having a significant impact on Canada as well, and Canada will engage in counterterrorism together with France and the international community.
2 Bilateral cooperative relationship
- Prime Minister Abe explained the concept of ''Proactive Contribution to Peace'' while referring to Japan's Legislation for Peace and Security, and stated that he hopes to further advance cooperation including in the area of security with Canada, also member of the G7. The two leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation .
- The two leaders shared the view that they both support free trade and the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) will promote trade, investment and economic growth in the region.
- Prime Minister Abe expressedhis hope that Canada would cooperate on early realization of exports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and improving the business environment. Prime Minister Trudeau replied that energy including LNG is an important industry for Canada, and Japanese investment in this field is welcomed.
- Furthermore, the two leaders shared the view that they will continue the bilateral cooperation in the science and technology field.
3 East Asia situation
The two leaders exchanged views on the situation in the Asia-Pacific region, and confirmed that attempts to unilaterally alter the status quo are a matter for concern shared by the international community, and that the rule of law, including the peaceful resolution of disputes, is important. In addition, Prime Minister Trudeau welcomed the positive developments in Japan-China relations and Japan-Republic of Korea relations.
4 Cooperation in the international arena
The two leaders exchanged views on the climate change issue, and shared the view that they will cooperate toward the success of the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21).