Japan-Panama Relations

Prime Minister ISHIBA welcomed President Mulino’s visit to Japan, noting that following the 120th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Panama last year, this year marks the commemorative “Japan-SICA (Central American Integration System) Friendship Year.” He expressed his hope that the Osaka-Kansai Expo would provide an opportunity to showcase the appeal of Panama to Japan and to the world. Prime Minister ISHIBA also expressed his intention to further deepen Japan’s favorable bilateral relations with Panama, which has worked closely with Japan to protect and expand global maritime transportation.
In response, President Mulino expressed his appreciation for the welcome extended by Prime Minister ISHIBA and the Japanese side for his visit. President Mulino stated that he was pleased to see deepening cooperation between the two countries in various fields, and expressed his hope that bilateral and people-to-people exchanges would advance further through the opportunities of the summit meeting and participation in the Expo.

1. The two leaders confirmed that Japan and Panama are like-minded countries working together to ensure that the world’s oceans remain free and open under the rule of law. In addition, they concurred on further strengthening bilateral relations, including cooperation for functional enhancement of the Panama Canal, strengthening of economic relations, and revitalization of political and economic dialogue.
2. Prime Minister ISHIBA noted that Japan has made efforts for the development of the Panama Canal through the public and private sectors, and conveyed that Japan will continue to extend its cooperation for ensuring the continued safe and stable operating environment of the Panama Canal.
3. President Mulino expressed his appreciation for Japan’s longstanding cooperation, including the Panama Metro Line-3 Development Project, which utilizes Japan’s advanced technological capabilities. He explained the economic investment plan for the stable operation and functional enhancement of the Panama Canal, and expressed his hope for strengthened cooperation with Japan.

1. The two leaders exchanged views on international affairs. Prime Minister ISHIBA expressed the importance of “Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP),” and the two leaders shared the view on the importance of free and safe ocean based on the rule of law.
2. The two leaders also exchanged views on the situation in East Asia, such as their policies toward North Korea including on the nuclear and missile issues and the abductions issue, and confirmed that they would collaborate on tackling international challenges.