Visit to the United Kingdom by Minister for Foreign Affairs Yoriko Kawaguchi

April 30, 2002

Minister for Foreign Affairs Yoriko Kawaguchi visited the United Kingdom (UK) on her first overseas visit since her accession to Foreign Minister. She held talks with Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs Jack Straw and Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott respectively, on the morning of 29 April.

1. Meeting with Foreign Secretary Jack Straw

Foreign Minister Kawaguchi exchanged views mainly on regional affairs such as the Middle East Peace Process and the situation in Afghanistan with Foreign Secretary Straw.

(1) Concerning the Middle East Peace Process, Foreign Minister Kawaguchi expressed her appreciation for the UK's efforts toward the freeing of President of the Palestinian Authority and Chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) Yasser Arafat in Ramallah and for its other actions, and pointed out that ensuring the sustained involvement of the United States of America and the deep commitment of the international community would be necessary in realizing a cease-fire and opening the peace process. Foreign Minister Kawaguchi further explained that Japan was committed to playing a constructive role. In response, Foreign Secretary Straw stated that both the UK and Japan shared the same recognition concerning the situation and that the UK would cooperate with Japan toward a resolution of the issues.

(2) Concerning the situation in Afghanistan, Foreign Minister Kawaguchi explained Japan's efforts, including support for the convening of an emergency Loya Jirga and cooperation in areas relating to public security, such as narcotics, the reintegration of former combatants and land mines. In response, Foreign Secretary Straw outlined the efforts being taken by the UK and stated an intention to work in close cooperation with Japan. In addition, Foreign Minister Kawaguchi announced support for the UK's proposal for Japan and the UK to hold jointly a Seminar on Afghanistan.

(3) The two foreign ministers had an exchange of views on regional situations, including India-Pakistan relations and North Korea. In particular, concerning North Korea, Foreign Minister Kawaguchi explained the importance of the resolution of the abduction issues of Japanese nationals and requested that the UK, based on Japan's stance, continue to call upon the North Korean side for a solution to the issues. The UK side stated that they had raised the issues and would continue to do so. In addition, regarding African issues, both sides concurred to continuously tackle such important challenges.

(4) Concerning Japan-UK bilateral relations, both sides agreed that at the grassroots level and in trade and investment aspects, Japan-UK relations should be further developed and cooperation in tackling global issues be strengthened. The UK side explained the measures in place concerning hooligans at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

(5) The UK side stated that it would continue to support Japan for its entry as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.

2. Meeting with Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott

Foreign Minister Kawaguchi exchanged views on the Kyoto Protocol and the World Summit on Sustainable Development (the Johannesburg Summit) with Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott.

(1) Concerning the Kyoto Protocol, both sides introduced their state of preparation to ratify the Protocol, and it was agreed to continue to consult closely on the issue.

(2) Concerning the Johannesburg Summit, Foreign Minister Kawaguchi explained that Japan would like to propose a basic principal of "global sharing," which aims to share strategy, responsibility and experiences globally, and take concrete actions accordingly. It was agreed that for the successful run-up to the Johannesburg Summit, both Japan and the UK would continue to cooperate closely.