Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has started her five-day trip to Vietnam and Australia, arriving in Hanoi on Friday. In Vietnam, she is set to meet with key leaders to enhance the Japan-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, focusing on areas like energy, critical minerals, and science and technology. Takaichi is also scheduled to address Japan’s foreign policy, particularly the ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ (FOIP) concept.
During her visit, the Japanese Prime Minister will proceed to Canberra on Sunday for further engagements. In Australia, she will participate in a Japan-Australia Summit Meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and meet with Governor-General Samantha Mostyn. This year marks the 50th Anniversary of the Signing of the Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between Japan and Australia, with discussions aimed at strengthening cooperation in various fields.
Takaichi emphasized the importance of supply chain resilience, especially in ensuring stable energy supply and critical minerals within Asia, considering the global situation. The visit aims to bolster cooperation between Japan and Australia in security, economy, and people-to-people exchanges, with a focus on elevating their Special Strategic Partnership. Both leaders will explore ways to enhance autonomy and resilience in critical supplies like crude oil and petroleum products.
