Asia
Japan-Singapore Summit Meeting
Prime Minister Abe stated that Japan wished to further deepen relations with Singapore through candid discussions, mentioning that this meeting was the third one with Prime Minister Lee this year following the one in July. Prime Minister Lee expressed his expectation for further develop the bilateral relations, affirming that tangible results have already achieved since the meeting in July.
2.Bilateral relations (1)Regarding political and security issues, Prime Minister Abe stated that, while the security environment in East Asia has become even severe, the government of Japan would contribute even more actively to the peace and stability of the region and the international community under the principle of “proactive contribution to peace.” From this standpoint, Prime Minister Abe expressed his will to give a keynote speech at the Shangri-la Dialogue on the evening of the 30th May next year with Diet approval, affirming that it offers an excellent opportunity for him to expound Japan’s security policies to international audience. Prime Minister Lee welcomed his will.
(2)Regarding cultural affairs, Prime Minister Abe stated that Japan would further work with Singapore to deepen discussion on how to further leverage the Japan Creative Centre (JCC).
(3)The two leaders also exchanged views on Japan-ASEAN cooperation, and shared the view that they would promote ASEAN connectivity and other initiatives through the measures such as JSPP21 (a joint third-country training program between Japan and Singapore). Prime Minister Abe also expressed his expectation that Japan’s bullet train system would be adopted for the high-speed railway development project connecting Singapore and Malaysia, reputed for its advanced technology and safety, and welcomed the basic consensus reached between Japan and Singapore on re-signing the currency swap worth 3 billion U.S. dollars.
The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and international affairs, including issues concerning the South China Sea. Prime Minister Abe explained Japan’s position on China’s establishment of Air Defense Identification Zone.