Press Releases
Japan-Switzerland Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
April 23, 2025
On April 23, commencing at 5:30 p.m. for approximately 50 minutes, Mr. IWAYA Takeshi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of the Swiss Confederation, who is visiting Japan to attend Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan. The overview is as follows.
- At the outset, Minister Iwaya stated that Switzerland is a partner for Japan sharing the same values and principles, and that Japan intends to deepen cooperation with Switzerland as like-minded countries amid the increasingly severe international situation. In addition, on bilateral relations, Minister Iwaya expressed his expectations for the strengthening of multilateral relationships through Expo 2025. Minister Cassis expressed his intention to promote the further development of bilateral relations including the field of science and technology, referring to the holding of Switzerland National Day at the Expo on the previous day.
- Both sides discussed the situation in Ukraine and Minister Iwaya valued Switzerland’s efforts for peace in Ukraine as well as for its recovery and reconstruction, including hosting an international conference. Both sides also concurred to work together for the success of the Mine Action Conference, which Japan will host this autumn.
- Furthermore, the two ministers held a candid exchange of views on the situation in East Asia including North Korea’s issues and confirmed that they will continue to work closely together.