Greetings from DISG Secretariat
Dear Readers,
Warm greetings to you all from the last volume of 2023. As we’re reaching the final month of this year, we’d like to extend our gratitude to all of you, our dear readers, for your continuation of support and accompaniment throughout the year. We hope that this year has been great for you all, and look forward to continuing to connect with you through this newsletter the upcoming years as well.
In commemorating the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, two final events of this year, “Young Business Leaders’ Summit and Generation Z Business Leaders’ Summit” and “ASEAN-Japan Economic Co-Creation Forum” were held from December 13-16, 2023, and this newsletter would like to introduce the background and overview of the events for you, along with the result of the events.
Along with the aforementioned topics, this volume will be covering 6 topics, as follows:
- • Report on “Young Business Leaders’ Summit and Generation Z Business Leaders’ Summit” and “ASEAN-Japan Economic Co-Creation Forum”
- • Report on “Cambodia Outlook Conference 2023”
- • Introduction of “50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation” History and Official Websites
- • Diplomatic Updates by Prime Minister Kishida
- • Other Diplomatic Updates
- • Explosion at Mindanao State University Marawi, in the Philippines
Best regards,
ISHIKAWA Hiroshi
Chair of DISG Task Force
Executive Director, JETRO Singapore
Special Advisor to Minister, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan
Report on “Young Business Leaders’ Summit and Generation Z Business Leaders’ Summit” and “ASEAN-Japan Economic Co-Creation Forum”
The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) held two events, namely the “Young Business Leaders’ Summit and Generation Z Business Leaders’ Summit” from December 13 to 15, 2023, at Karuizawa Prince Hotel, and the “ASEAN-Japan Economic Co-Creation Forum” on December 16, 2023, at Academyhills (Roppongi Hills Mori Tower).
■ Background
As the year 2023 marks the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, in commemorating this, METI held the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit in Tokyo from December 16 to 18, 2023, along with the two events, namely the Young Business Leaders’ Summit and Generation Z Business Leaders’ Summit, and the ASEAN-Japan Economic Co-Creation Forum.
Aiming to help ASEAN and Japan continue to be good partners for the next 50 years as they have been over the past 50 years, the ASEAN Economic Ministers’ (AEM) - METI Consultations held in August 2023 released the ASEAN-Japan Economic Co-Creation Vision (hereinafter referred to as the “Vision”), which charts the future and presents the forthcoming directions of ASEAN-Japan co-creation in this new era.
The Vision describes how the two sides need to implement specific projects one by one through concerted public-private efforts between Japan and ASEAN so that both sides can become partners that grow together. Hence, METI has been advancing collaboration together with the public and private sectors in Japan and ASEAN to realize the Vision.
■ Overview
○ “Young Business Leaders’ Summit” and “Generation Z Business Leaders’ Summit”
The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), and other organizations held the ASEAN-Japan Young Business Leaders’ Summit and the Generation Z Business Leaders’ Summit in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, Japan, from Wednesday, December 13 to Friday, December 15, 2023.
The purpose of the summits was to bring together future business leaders in Japan and ASEAN to build and strengthen mutual understanding and trust, share economic, business, and social challenges, and discuss and propose ways to cooperate to solve them.
The Joint Statements, the outcomes of both summits, were delivered to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan and President Joko Widodo of Indonesia, co-chairs of the Commemorative Summit for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, on Saturday, December 16.
○ “ASEAN-Japan Economic Co-Creation Forum”
This forum covered projects that have been achieved through ASEAN-Japan co-creation efforts and provided discussions by experts and business leaders in the public and private sectors to foster momentum for ASEAN-Japan collaboration in the field of business.
■ Result of “Young Business Leaders’ Summit”
Date: Thursday, December 14, 2023
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 5:45 p.m.
Venue: Karuizawa Town, Nagano Prefecture
Official Website: click here
Joint Statement: click here
Young Business Leaders: click here
The ASEAN-Japan Young Business Leaders’ Summit brought together young business leaders from ASEAN and Japan to build and strengthen mutual understanding and trust, share economic and business challenges and social issues, and discuss and propose ways to cooperate for solutions. Discussions were also held between Mr. Niinami Takeshi, Chairman of the Japan Association of Corporate Executives (Keizai Doyukai) and Chief Executive Officer of Suntory Holdings Limited., Mr. Morita Takayuki, President and CEO of NEC Corporation, and other leading executives of Japan.
The open sessions shared economic and business challenges and social issues through lectures and panel discussions, presenting possible areas of cooperation. In addition, business leaders from ASEAN countries and Japanese companies conducted a great deal of business matching. These discussions led to a Joint Statement being developed.
■ Result of “Generation Z Business Leaders’ Summit”
Date: Friday, December 15, 2023
Time: 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Venue: Karuizawa Town, Nagano Prefecture
Official Website: click here
Joint Statement: click here
Young Business Leaders: click here
The ASEAN-Japan Generation Z Business Leaders’ Summit brought together business leaders in their twenties, including young entrepreneurs, from ASEAN and Japan to build and strengthen mutual understanding and trust, share economic and business challenges and social issues, and discuss and propose ways to cooperate for solutions.
In the open session, the participants discussed and presented to Japanese companies and local high school students the transformation of society by startups and the potential for developing a sustainable society.
These discussions led to a Joint Statement being developed.
■ Result of “ASEAN-Japan Economic Co-Creation Forum”
Date: Saturday, December 16, 2023
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Venue: Academyhills (49th floor, Roppongi Hills Mori Tower)
Official Website: click here
○ Opening session
Prime Minister Kishida Fumio delivered his remarks in a video message, stating that the foundation of ASEAN-Japan friendship is the connections among industrial players in ASEAN and Japan and also that the ASEAN-Japan concept for the next 50 years is co-creation. Following this, Chairman Kobayashi Ken, Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Alternate Chair Bernardino Vega, ASEAN-BAC, President Oudet Souvannavong, Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI), Governor Chea Serey, National Bank of Cambodia, and Chairman ISHIGURO Norihiko, Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), delivered their remarks.
○ Session 1: ASEAN-Japan Cooperation Between Next Generations to Address Global Challenges
Focusing on human resources as a foundation to realize economic co-creation in which ASEAN and Japan jointly create the future, next-generation business leaders in ASEAN and Japan held lively discussions on the importance of collaboration among next-generation business leaders, the value of such collaboration, and the potential for solving socio-economic challenges through their connections.
○ Session 2: ASEAN-Japan Co-Creation for the Future
Participants recognized the importance of further consolidating ASEAN-Japan collaboration in the field of the economy facilitated by future leaders who are expected to represent the business world in both ASEAN and Japan, business owners who are playing active roles in creating innovation through new business, and other stakeholders, thereby realizing co-creation. To this end, from the perspective of the business world in both ASEAN and Japan, they held discussions on the roles that governments should play and expectations therefor and on innovation that may be incubated through the exchange between the leaders of ASEAN and Japan.
○ Session 3: Energy Transition in Asia through Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC)
Representatives of the industrial players in ASEAN and Japan, the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA), and other organizations held lively discussions on the challenges of achieving decarbonization in Asia, the growth center of the global economy, while at the same time ensuring economic growth and energy security, and also on the expected role that the AZEC platform should play in the future.
○ Closing session
Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual, the Department of Trade and Industry, the Philippines, and Minister Malaithong Kommasith, Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Lao PDR, delivered speeches. As a representative of Japan, Minister Saito Ken, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, stated that as efforts to enhance the economic ties between ASEAN and Japan and grow together to build friendship consolidated to a level never seen before, ASEAN and Japan will jointly create new industries, develop more AZEC projects, and launch and continue projects for strengthening collaboration in fostering human resources that will play a leading role in the next generation in ASEAN and Japan.
○ Signing ceremonies for MOUs
In line with the forum, about 70 memorandums of understanding (MOUs) were newly released, including those in the field of economy, trade and investment (e.g., collaboration between ASEAN international organizations and universities, facilitation of trade procedures at related organizations in ASEAN and Japan, and promotion of blended finance-type support schemes) and in the field of energy transition (e.g., renewable energy, hydrogen and ammonia, CCUS, next-generation fuels, decarbonization of industries, and carbon management, which are efforts for the realization of the AZEC platform).
○ Calling for public attention to Japanese marine products
A reception party was held after the end of the forum and Minister Saito delivered his remarks. Following this, together with Minister Malaithong, Lao PDR, and Ms. Nakagawa Haruka, a Japanese actress and model that based in Indonesia, Minister Saito sampled Japanese marine products (scallops produced in Hokkaido) at a JETRO booth exhibited at the reception site, and he called for public attention to the good taste of the products.
○ Event hosted by ERIA
In the morning of the forum, ERIA hosted an event mainly highlighting two ERIA Digital Innovation and Sustainable Economy Centre (E-DISC) pilot projects for ASEAN-Japan cooperation.
The event showcased a roadmap for the efforts to promote trade digitization between ASEAN and Japan. Following this, participants held discussions on digital transformation in trade for trade facilitation and supply chain resilience between ASEAN and Japan. Also, participants recognized that a transition from a linear to a circular economy would contribute to addressing resource constraints and risks, promoting carbon neutrality, and capturing opportunities for economic growth through the creation of a resource circulation market, and to this end, they held discussions on the realization of a circular economy ahead of other countries through cooperation between ASEAN and Japan.
- “Young Business Leaders’ Summit and Generation Z Business Leaders’ Summit” and “ASEAN-Japan Economic Co-Creation Forum” to be Held from December 13 to 16, 2023 (English) (LINK)
- METI Holds ASEAN-Japan Young Business Leaders’ Summit and Generation Z Business Leaders’ Summit; Outcomes Delivered to the Japan-Indonesia Summit Meeting (English) (LINK)
- ASEAN-Japan Economic Co-Creation Forum Held on the Sidelines of the ASEAN-Japan 50th Year Commemorative Summit (English) (LINK)
Report on “Cambodia Outlook Conference 2023”
On November 23, 2023, Cambodia Development Resource Institute (CDRI), partnering with AEM-METI Economic and Industrial Cooperation Committee (AMEICC) and 5 other national and international institutions, co-organized “Cambodia Outlook Conference 2023” in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
“Cambodia Outlook Conference 2023” Official Website: click here
“Cambodia Annual Outlook Conference” is CDRI flagship and high-level event of the year for the Cambodia Development Resource Institute, first inaugurated in 2007. For the 15th time of the event this year, the theme was “Cambodia Vision 2030 and Beyond: Charting a Path for Resilient, Sustainable, and Inclusive Prosperity”, and was kicked off under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet.
In Prime Minister Hun Manet’s keynote message, he expressed his appreciation to Cambodia Development Resource Institute (CDRI) for cooperating with many national and international institutions to organize this very important conference, and emphasizing the Cambodia’s vision of becoming an upper-middle-income country by 2030 and a high-income country by 2050. He underlined that, “in this regard, based on the spirit of “keeping the old, establishing the new” and “think globally and act locally”, the Royal Government of the 7th Legislature of the National Assembly has launched the Pentagonal Strategy-Phase I for Growth, Employment, Equity, Efficiency, and Sustainability, and also identified five key priorities, namely People, Road, Water, Electricity, and Technology that are clearly reflected in the Five Strategic Pentagons of the strategy”.
The conference was attended by more than 500 leaders, including government officials, academics, development partners and global economic experts, to address Cambodia’s most pressing challenges. The full day panel discussions were curated to focus on key issues surrounding Cambodia’s economic prospects, sustainable development priorities, and potential to learn and grow along its development path. Each panel discussions aim to offer pragmatic insights, foster critical dialogues, and provide a comprehensive understanding of Cambodia’s development landscape.
The conference was concluded and given closing remarks by the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Economy and Finance, H.E. Dr. Aun Pornmoniroth, who delivered a reflection on the day’s participation and the importance of this conference in achieving “Cambodia Vision 2050”, which aims to transform Cambodia into a high-income country, by passing through the milestone of becoming an upper-middle-income country in 2030.
- Cambodia Outlook Conference 2023 Official Website (English) (LINK)
- Cambodia Vision 2030 and Beyond: Charting a Path for Resilient, Sustainable, and Inclusive Prosperity: Press Release (English) (LINK)
- Cambodia Outlook Conference 2023 Kicks Off (English) (LINK)
Introduction of “50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation” History and Official Websites
The Prime Minister’s Office of Japan introduces web pages and websites dedicated to commemoration of the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, as Japan is the host of the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit marking the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, taking place in Tokyo from 16 to 18 December 2023.
■ History of 50 years of ASEAN-Japan Relations
Based on the history of ASEAN-Japan cooperation that goes back 50 years, this web page (click here) sends out a robust message to the world on the efforts toward a free and open international order based on the rule of law.
Over the past 50 years, since the dialogue on synthetic rubber in 1973, Japan and ASEAN have worked closely together for the peace, stability, development and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region. The ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement entered into force in 2008. In 2013, which marked the 40th anniversary of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, Prime Minister Abe Shinzo announced the Five Principles of Japan’s ASEAN Diplomacy.
In 2023, ASEAN and Japan will celebrate 50th year of friendship and cooperation. Building on the strong partnership described above, Japan and ASEAN are expected to further strengthen their friendship and cooperative relationship. Read the full article on the web page, click here.
■ Official Branding and Event Updates of the “50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation”
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan accumulated and updated on the Official Logo and Catchphrase, and Events related to the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation on the web page. Go to the web page, click here.
■ Official Website of the “50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation”
Official Website of the “50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation”, which includes information and updates about background, events, campaigns, articles, and gallery. Go to the website, click here.
- 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation - Initiatives by the Prime Minister (English) (LINK)
Diplomatic Updates by Prime Minister Kishida
■ Courtesy Call to Prime Minister Kishida By “Japan-Vietnam Teenage Ambassador” High School Students
On November 14, 2023, Prime Minister Kishida received a courtesy call from 100 “Japan-Vietnam Teenage Ambassador” high school students of the AEON 1% Club*.
The representative of the participants from Japanese high schools in this project recognized that there are various social issues and that different cultures have different ways of solving them. She also expressed her desire to contribute as a bridge between Japan and Vietnam in the future. In addition, she presented Prime Minister Kishida with a painting made from rice grains.
In response, Prime Minister Kishida expressed his hope that this year marks the 50th year of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Vietnam, and that the high school students, who are the future leaders of the two countries, will gather together to further expand the circle of exchange and serve as a bridge for friendship between the two countries.
*AEON 1% Club, a Public Interest Incorporated Association
AEON 1% Club was established in 1990 by the AEON group companies, to fulfill its social responsibility by translating the Aeon Group's basic principles of “pursuing peace, respecting humanity, and contributing to local communities, always with the customer's point of view as its core” into concrete actions. For more than 30 years since then, the company has been engaged in environmental and social contribution activities with an amount equivalent to 1% of the pre-tax profits generated.
- AEON 1% Club “Japan-Vietnam Teenage Ambassador” high school students pay courtesy call on Prime Minister Kishida (Japanese) (LINK)
■ Japan-Thailand Summit Meeting
On November 15, 2023, Mr. Fumio Kishida, Prime Minister of Japan, who was visiting San Francisco in the United States to attend the APEC Summit, held a Summit Meeting with H.E. Mr. Srettha Thavisin, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the Kingdom of Thailand.
At the outset, Prime Minister Kishida congratulated Prime Minister Srettha for taking office and expressed his desire to work with Prime Minister Srettha to further develop the bilateral relationship between the two countries, which has become a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” and to maintain and strengthen a free and open international order based on the rule of law. Prime Minister Kishida also expressed hope that he and other leaders will jointly set out a direction of future ASEAN-Japan relations and a new vision of cooperation at the Commemorative Summit for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation next month. In response, Prime Minister Srettha stated that he was honored to meet with Prime Minister Kishida and that Japan and Thailand have been cooperating at various levels for many years. Prime Minister Srettha also expressed his desire to work with Prime Minister Kishida to further develop cooperation with Japan in the future.
The two leaders confirmed bilateral cooperation on business environment in Thailand, and promoting cooperation in the concept of the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC), as well as cooperation on the security front and regional cooperation. In addition, the two leaders exchanged views on regional and international affairs, including the situation surrounding Israel and Palestine, Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the East and South China Seas, North Korea, including the nuclear and missile issues and the abduction issue, and the situation in Myanmar.
- Japan-Thailand Summit Meeting (English) (LINK)
■ Courtesy Call from ASCOJA (ASEAN Council of Japan Alumni) and ASJA (Asia Japan Alumni) International
On November 24, 2023, Prime Minister Kishida received a courtesy call from ASCOJA* (ASEAN Council of Japan Alumni) and ASJA** (Asia Japan Alumni) International at the Prime Minister’s Office.
At the outset, on behalf of ASCOJA, Mr. Mangkorn Rodprapakorn, Acting Chairman of ASCOJA from Thailand, introduced the council's activities related to ASEAN-Japan study exchanges. In response, Prime Minister Kishida stated that ASCOJA plays an important role in sharing the friendship, goodwill, and learning that former Japanese students have cultivated in Japan with the entire ASEAN region, and expressed his respect for the council's efforts.
*ASCOJA: ASEAN Council of Japan Alumni
The ASEAN Council of Japan Alumni (ASCOJA) is a coalition of Japan Alumni Associations from 10 ASEAN countries. Established in 1977 as a body organization, the number of members has exceeded 50,000, including ministers and celebrities from various countries. In ASEAN, general meetings are held for the purpose of exchanging opinions on the activities of Japanese Alumni Associations in each country, and symposiums are held to discuss ASEAN-Japan relations.
**ASJA: Asia Japan Alumni
The Asia Japan Alumni (ASJA) was established in 2000 as the Japanese counterpart of ASCOJA. The activities include holding exchange programs and co-sponsored symposiums for government-sponsored international students from ASEAN.
- Courtesy Call from ASCOJA (ASEAN Council of Japan Alumni) and ASJA (Asia Japan Alumni) International (English) (LINK)
- Courtesy Call from ASCOJA (ASEAN Council of Japan Alumni) and ASJA (Asia Japan Alumni) International (Japanese) (LINK)
■ Japan-Vietnam Summit Meeting
On November 27, 2023, Prime Minister Kishida held a summit meeting and other events with H.E. Mr. Vo Van Thuong, President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, at the Prime Minister’s Office.
After attending a salute and guard of honor ceremony, the two leaders held a summit meeting followed by a signing and exchange of documents and a joint press announcement.
In the presence of the two leaders, the following documents in relation to bilateral cooperation were exchanged;
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1. Memorandum of Cooperation Between the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam (“MOIT”) and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of JAPAN (“METI”) on the Realization of Energy Transitions
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2. The Project for the Improvement of Conservation and Restoration Capacity for Cultural Heritage at the Viet Nam National Museum of History
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3. The Programme for COVID-19 Crisis Response Emergency Support
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4. Arrangement Concerning Feasibility Study Between the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Japan for Scientific Cooperation in Space Technology Phase 2023-2028
In addition, the provision of training-related equipment to Viet Nam Coast Guard Education and Training Centre, which was signed and exchanged on November 24, 2023 in Ha Noi, was also introduced, and “Viet Nam 2045,” a policy proposal by the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) for Vietnam to become a developed country, was handed to the two leaders.
- Japan-Viet Nam Summit Meeting (by Cabinet Public Affairs Office) (English) (LINK)
- Japan-Viet Nam Summit Meeting (by MOFA) (English) (LINK)
■ Emergency Proposal toward the Commemorative Summit marking the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation from the Liberal Democratic Party
On December 7, 2023, Prime Minister Kishida received an emergency proposal toward the Commemorative Summit marking the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation from the Liberal Democratic Party at the Prime Minister’s Office.
- Emergency Proposal toward the Commemorative Summit marking the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation from the Liberal Democratic Party (English) (LINK)
■ Upcoming Reports: Prime Minister Kishida hosted Special Summit and Bilateral meetings
In December, Prime Minister Kishida hosted the Commemorative Summit for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, and several bilateral meetings. The details of each event will be introduced in the next volume of DISG Newsletter in January 2024. Please stay tuned.
Other Diplomatic Updates
■ Visit to Japan of H.E. Mr. Vo Van Thuong, President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and Madam Phan Thi Thanh Tam
On November 27 to 30, 2023, H.E. Mr. Vo Van Thuong, President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, and his spouse, Madam Phan Thi Thanh Tam will pay their first official visit to Japan.
During their stay in Japan, the President and Madam Tam will make a State Call on Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan, and Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan will host a Court Luncheon in honor of the President and his spouse. Mr. Fumio Kishida, Prime Minister of Japan, will hold a summit meeting with the President. Prime Minister and Mrs. Kishida will host a dinner for the President and his spouse.
The Government of Japan sincerely welcomes the visit of the President and Madam Tam and hopes that this visit will further strengthen the friendly relations between Japan and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam. During their stay in Japan, the President and Madam Tam will visit Tokyo and Fukuoka. The visit to Fukuoka is expected to further development of both countries’ regional exchange.
- Visit to Japan of H.E. Mr. Vo Van Thuong, President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and Madam Phan Thi Thanh Tam (English) (LINK)
■ Japan–Philippines Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
On November 15, 2023, Ms. Kamikawa Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who is visiting San Francisco, the United States to attend APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) Ministerial Meeting, met with Hon. Enrique A. Manalo, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines.
At the outset, Minister Kamikawa appreciated the warm hospitality by the Philippines side during Prime Minister Kishida’s visit in early November and stated that it was very meaningful that the two leaders had confirmed their close coordination in order to maintain and strengthen a free and open international order based on the rule of law and to ensure human dignity. In response, Secretary Manalo welcomed the success of Prime Minister Kishida’s visit to the Philippines and stated that he would like to further enhance Japan-Philippine relations based on the outcomes of the visit.
The two Ministers concurred to steadily promote the bilateral cooperation in areas such as security including Official Security Assistance (OSA), transfer of defense equipment and technology, maritime security capacity building including the provision of patrol vessels, and the commencement of negotiation of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) as well as the materialization of Japan-U.S.-Philippine cooperation.
The two Ministers exchanged views on regional and global issues of common concern for the two countries and confirmed that they would work closely on issues such as the situation in the East and South China Seas, nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation and Women Peace Security (WPS). In addition, Minister Kamikawa reiterated Japan's position on the Israeli-Palestinian situation, referring to the united message delivered by the G7 Foreign Ministers at the recent G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting, and the two ministers concurred to continue to maintain close communication.
The two Ministers concurred to continue to work closely toward the success of the Commemorative Summit for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship in December.
- Japan–Philippines Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (English) (LINK)
■ METI Minister Nishimura Attends Ministerial Meeting of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF)
From November 13 to 16, 2023, the meetings related to the IPEF were held in San Francisco, the United States. These meetings were hosted by H.E. Mr. Joe Biden, President, H.E. Dr. Katherine Tai, Trade Representative, and H.E. Dr. Gina M. Raimondo, Secretary of Commerce, of the United States, and brought together representatives of all 14 IPEF partner countries*. As representatives of Japan, Mr. Fumio Kishida, Prime Minister, Mr. Nishimura Yasutoshi, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, and Ms. Kamikawa Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs, attended.
At these meetings, negotiations concerning the fields of Clean Economies and Fair Economies were substantially concluded. In addition, negotiations concerning the field of Trade made substantial progress, including the details involving Inclusivity and Trade Facilitation.
The main remarks made by Minister Nishimura were as follows:
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• The substantial progress made in a short period of time in negotiations concerning the field of Trade showed to the world our commitment to the prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region, and we achieved a good result concerning Trade Facilitation and other issues. Japan would like to continue to hold discussions on the Digital Economy and other elements as well.
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• Japan welcomes the IPEF’s reaching of the substantial conclusion of negotiations concerning the fields of Clean Economies and Fair Economies. For Clean Economies in particular, range of pathways that take into consideration the situations in the respective countries are necessary, and the organic deployment of cooperation activities in accordance with their interests is considered important. Japan would like the IPEF to overcome this challenge by taking advantage of innovation and cooperation among IPEF partners to realize carbon neutrality.
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• The Government of Japan has pledged to provide approximately 10 million dollars (1.4 billion yen) to the IPEF Catalytic Capital Fund to be newly launched as an effort to encourage the transition to clean economies. It also would like to provide a support measure through the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and Nippon Export and Investment Insurance (NEXI), thereby expanding investment in the IPEF region with public-private collaboration.
Moreover, all 14 partner countries signed the Supply Chain Agreement, whose negotiations were substantially concluded in terms of the details in May 2023.
*Remark: 14 IPEF partner countries consists of the United States, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, seven ASEAN economies (Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Philippines, Viet Nam, Malaysia, and Brunei Darussalam), India, and Fiji.
- METI Minister Nishimura Attends Ministerial Meeting of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) (English) (LINK)
■ The First Japan-Cambodia Foreign Senior Officials’ Talks
On November 20, 2023, Mr. Funakoshi Takehiro, Senior Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs held the 1st Japan-Cambodia Foreign Senior Officials’ Talks with H.E. Ms. Tuot Panha, Secretary of State of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia. This meeting was launched based on the Japan-Cambodia Foreign Ministers' Meeting in January and the Japan-Cambodia Summit Meeting in September, 2023.
During this meeting, both sides discussed a wide range of bilateral relations such as security and defense cooperation, social and economic cooperation including digital, in order to strengthen the “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” which was upgraded in this year, the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Cambodia.
Both sides also exchanged views on various regional affairs including ASEAN-Japan cooperation, the East and South China Seas, Myanmar and the situation in Israel and Palestine, and confirmed their commitment to further strengthen the cooperation in regional and international arena in this year, the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation.
- The First Japan-Cambodia Foreign Senior Officials’ Talks (English) (LINK)
■ Meeting between State Minister for Foreign Affairs Horii and Ms. Tuot Panha, Secretary of State of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia
On November 20, 2023, H.E. Mr. Iwao Horii, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, met with H.E.Ms. Tuot Panha, Secretary of State of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia, who is visiting Japan to attend the Japan-Cambodia Foreign Minister-level Consultations.
Vice Minister Horii welcomed the holding of the first round of the Foreign Minister-level Consultations in this commemorative year of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Cambodia. He also noted that the two countries have been actively communicating at a high level and expanding cooperation in areas such as security and digital technology, and that he hopes to continue to strengthen the “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” between the two countries as well as to cooperate in regional and international fora.
In response, Secretary Tuot Panha expressed her gratitude for Japan's support and cooperation with Cambodia, and said that she would like to further cooperate with Japan in the regional and international areas.
- Meeting between State Minister for Foreign Affairs Horii and Ms. Tuot Panha, Secretary of State of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia (Japanese) (LINK)
■ Attendance of Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Komura at the “Philippine Festival 2023”
On November 25, 2023, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Masahiro Komura attended the opening ceremony of the “Philippine Festival 2023”, sponsored by the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo, and delivered remarks following the opening address by Philippine Ambassador to Japan Garcia-Albano.
In his remarks, Parliamentary Vice-Minister Komura stated that this year has been a year of breakthroughs for both Japan and the Philippines, with steady progress in bilateral cooperation in a wide range of fields, including President Marcos’ visit to Japan in February and Prime Minister Kishida’s visit to the Philippines this month, and from the perspective of continuing to strengthen bilateral cooperation and deepen mutual understanding between the people of both countries, the “Philippine Festival” is one of the symbolic efforts to continue strengthening bilateral cooperation and deepening mutual understanding between the people of the two countries.
- Attendance of Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Takamura at the “Philippine Festival 2023” (Japanese) (LINK)
■ Exchange of letters regarding the provision of infectious disease testing equipment to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam
On November 27, 2023, in the presence of Mr. Fumio Kishida, Prime Minister of Japan and H.E. Mr. Vo Van Thuong, President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, Mr. Takio Yamada, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, and Mr. Tran Van Thuan, Deputy Minister of Health of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam exchanged letters regarding the "Emergency Assistance Plan for the New Coronavirus Infectious Disease Crisis," a grant aid of 363 million yen to provide equipment related to infectious disease testing in Tokyo.
In order to achieve both countermeasures against COVID-19 infection and economic development, it is necessary to establish an organizational structure that can respond to infectious diseases, such as an expanded testing system, in preparation for the re-spread of COVID-19 infection, in which Vietnam lacks equipment related to infectious disease testing.
This cooperation aims to strengthen and expand the testing system at the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology (NIHE) in the capital city of Hanoi by installing equipment related to infectious disease testing, thereby contributing to the improvement of society and livelihood, poverty reduction, and the correction of disparities through the establishment of a robust health system to prepare for Vietnam's post-corona crisis.
- Exchange of Letters Concerning the Provision of Equipment for Testing for Infectious Diseases to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (Grant Aid “Emergency Assistance Plan for Responding to the New Coronavirus Infectious Disease Crisis”) (Japanese) (LINK)
■ Exchange of letters regarding the General Cultural Grant Aid to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, “The Project for Capacity Development of Cultural Heritage Preservation and Restoration at the Vietnam National Museum of History”
On November 27, 2023, in the presence of Mr. Fumio Kishida, Prime Minister of Japan and H.E. Mr. Vo Van Thuong, President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, Mr. Takio Yamada, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and H.E. Mr. Hoang Dao Cuong, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam exchanged letters in Tokyo regarding the General Cultural Grant Aid to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, “The Project for Capacity Development of Cultural Heritage Preservation and Restoration at the Vietnam National Museum of History” with a maximum grant amount of 85.3 million yen.
This cooperation is intended to contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage and the development of advanced human resources in the field by providing the Vietnam National Museum of History, which has one of the largest collections and displays of cultural heritage in Vietnam, with the necessary equipment for the conservation and restoration of cultural heritage, thereby improving the working and promoting intellectual and technical exchange and technology diffusion.
- Exchange of letters regarding the General Cultural Grant Aid to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, “The Project for Capacity Development of Cultural Heritage Preservation and Restoration at the Vietnam National Museum of History” (Japanese) (Japanese) (LINK)
■ Meeting between Mrs. Yuko Kishida, Spouse of Prime Minister of Japan, and Mrs. Tam, Spouse of President of Vietnam
On November 27, 2023, Mrs. Yuko Kishida, Spouse of the Prime Minister of Japan, met with Mrs. Phan Thi Thanh Tam, Spouse of the President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, who was visiting Japan as an official working guest and experienced making “Futomakizushi” (thick sushi roll), a local dish of Chiba Prefecture, and had a friendly discussion.
Both ladies experienced making gorgeous peach-patterned Futomakizushi together in a friendly atmosphere, with an instructor from the Chiba Prefecture Traditional Local Cuisine Study Group explaining the history and cultural background of “Futomakizushi”.
Moreover, the two ladies also discussed the culture and arts of both Japan and Vietnam and the importance of passing them on to the next generation.
- Meeting between Mrs. Yuko Kishida, Spouse of Prime Minister of Japan, and Mrs. Tam, Spouse of President of Vietnam (Japanese) (Japanese) (LINK)
■ Visit to the Avatar Robot Café of Mrs. Yuko Kishida, Spouse of Prime Minister of Japan, and Mrs. Tam, Spouse of President of Vietnam
On November 28, 2023, Mrs. Yuko Kishida, Spouse of the Prime Minister of Japan, and Mrs. Phan Thi Thanh Tam, Spouse of the President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, who was visiting Japan as an official working guest, visited the “DAWN - Avatar Robot Cafe ver.β”.
Both ladies visited the “DAWN - Avatar Robot Cafe ver.β” in Chuo-ku, Tokyo, and interacted with employees at the café, which provides services to people who have difficulty going out for various reasons, such as disabilities, childcare, and nursing care, by piloting an OriHime robot from their homes.
Both ladies were briefed on the facilities and concept by the representative, Mr. Kentaro Yoshifuji, and talked with the lively workers over coffee provided by an avatar robot barista, asking questions about the satisfaction of their work and other topics.
- Visit to the Avatar Robot Café of Mrs. Yuko Kishida, Spouse of Prime Minister of Japan, and Mrs. Tam, Spouse of President of Vietnam (Japanese) (LINK)
■ Courtesy call by Cambodian Senior Minister Sak Setha to Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Komura
On December 1, 2023, H.E. Mr. Masahiro Komura, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan received a courtesy call by H.E. Mr. Sak Setha, Senior Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia during his visit to Japan under the invitation program for local administration by JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency).
Parliamentary Vice-Minister Komura welcomed the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Cambodia, and expressed his wish to continue cooperation in the field of governance, including local administration, which the new government of Hun Manet is placing high priority on. In response, Senior Minister Sak Setha expressed his gratitude for Japan's support for governance based on the knowledge gained through Japan's cooperation. Both leaders expressed their desire to work to strengthen governance in Cambodia.
- Courtesy call by Cambodian Senior Minister Sak Setha to Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Komura (Japanese) (LINK)
■ The Third Consultations on Consular Affairs between Japan and the Kingdom of Thailand
On December 1, 2023, the Third Consultations on Consular Affairs between Japan and the Kingdom of Thailand were held in Bangkok. Mr. Ando Toshihide, Director-General of the Consular Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs attended on the Japanese side, and Mr. Rooge Thammongkol, Director-General of Consular Affairs Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand attended on the Thai side.
The participants exchanged views on mutual interests in the consular issues, including protection of own nationals with the aim of further activating personal exchanges between two countries. They confirmed that they will continue to cooperate closely in the consular field. The next consultations will be held in Tokyo and be scheduled through diplomatic channels.
- The Third Consultations on Consular Affairs between Japan and the Kingdom of Thailand (English) (LINK)
■ Attendance of Parliamentary Vice-Minister Horii to “National Day of Thailand Reception”
On December 5, 2023, the Royal Thai Embassy in Japan hosted the “National Day of Thailand Reception,” which was attended by Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan Iwao Horii.
Following the opening remarks by H.E. Mrs. Prangtip, Charge d'Affaires of the Royal Thai Embassy in Tokyo, Mr. Horii, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, delivered remarks, noting that Foreign Minister Kamikawa and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Parnpree held a meeting in October during her visit to Thailand, and Prime Minister Kishida and Prime Minister Srettha held a summit meeting in San Francisco in November, where they confirmed their intention to work closely together for the further development of the bilateral relationship, which has become a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership”. He also stated that he would like to welcome Prime Minister Srettha to the ASEAN Special Summit meeting in Tokyo in the middle of this month, and would make every effort to further strengthen the bilateral ties through these active visits by dignitaries.
- Attendance of Parliamentary Vice-Minister Horii to “National Day of Thailand Reception” (Japanese) (LINK)
Explosion at Mindanao State University Marawi, in the Philippines
In the morning of December 3, 2023, an explosion occurred at Mindanao State University Marawi in Marawi City, Mindanao Island in the southern Philippines, and caused casualties. In this regard, Japan prays for deceased people and expresses its sincere condolences to the bereaved families. Japan also extends its heartfelt sympathy to those injured.
Attacks against innocent citizens are unacceptable for any reason, and Japan firmly condemns terrorism in all its forms.
Japan will continue to support the peace process in Mindanao under the conviction that stability in Mindanao is linked to peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.
- The Explosion at Mindanao State University Marawi, in the Philippines (Statement by Press Secretary KOBAYASHI Maki) (English) (LINK)
Editorial Note
