Countries & Regions

Minister for Foreign Affairs Fumio Kishida, who is visiting Brunei Darussalam to attend ASEAN-related Foreign Ministers' Meetings, held talks with His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Brunei Darussalam, for about 15 minutes from 1:45 p.m. on July 2 (local time). The following is an overview of the meeting.

1. Introduction

   Minister Kishida expressed his congratulations with regard to the wedding of Minister Mohamed's son His Royal Highness Pengiran Muda Abdul Qawi, and complimented Brunei for its efforts as the chair of ASEAN. Minister Mohamed responded by showing his appreciation to Minister Kishida for his congratulatory remarks, and expressed gratitude to Japan for its full-fledged support of Brunei's chairmanship of ASEAN.

2. Bilateral Relations

   The two ministers welcomed the close communication that is being carried out at a high level between their two countries, including mutual visits by foreign ministers since the beginning of this year, and a His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah's visit to Japan in May. Minister Mohamed stated that he intends to further deepen friendly bilateral relations, and the two ministers shared the view to collaborate for the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Brunei next year.

3. Regional Situations

   The two ministers exchanged views on regional situations, including sharing that they would cooperate for achieving success in ASEAN-related summit meetings in October this year.