Greetings from DISG Secretariat
Dear Readers,
As the Paris Olympics 2024 captivated audiences around the globe, we hope you were as excited as we were about the thrilling events and inspiring performances. Along with the excitement from the game, we’re delighted to share the latest updates and highlights with you in this volume of our newsletter.
In our previous issue, we introduced the “Singapore-Japan Fast Track Pitch Event 2024,” which was officially launched in April. We’re pleased to bring you a comprehensive report on the results and key highlights from this event, which took place in July, showcasing the vibrant collaboration between startups and leading companies from ASEAN and Japan.
In other news, Prime Minister Kishida recently participated in the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) Meeting, delivering an impactful opening plenary and engaging with ASEAN leaders. Foreign Minister Kamikawa has also been active, conducting several important meetings with leaders from ASEAN countries. Notably, Minister Kamikawa’s visits to Cambodia and the Philippines from July 5-9, as well as discussions with foreign ministers from Laos, Indonesia, and Singapore, have strengthened regional ties and fostered deeper cooperation.
Capturing the aforementioned news, this volume of our newsletter will cover the following topics;
- • Report on “Singapore-Japan Fast Track Pitch Event 2024”
- • Opening Plenary of the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) Meeting by Prime Minister Kishida
- • Diplomatic Updates by Prime Minister Kishida
- • Other Diplomatic Updates
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 “Singapore-Japan Fast Track Pitch Event 2024”
On July 19, 2024, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), co-organizing with the Ministry of Trade and Industry of Singapore, Economic Development Board, and Enterprise Singapore, held the “Singapore-Japan Fast Track Pitch Event 2024” in Singapore to accelerate global open innovation of Japanese companies, startups, and SMEs.
In front of approximately 300 participants, 170 in-person and 130 online, 13 finalists from Japan, Singapore, and other countries presented their proposals on the open innovation challenges provided by the five challenge owners. Prior to the presentations, Mr. Ken Saito, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan, and Dr. Tan See Leng, Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Trade and Industry of Singapore, gave the opening remarks, highlighting the importance of enhancing cooperation for the creation of innovation between the two countries.
■ Pitch Session by the Finalists
During the application period, around 50 proposals from across the globe were submitted for the challenges issued by five companies from Japan and Singapore. Of these, 13 finalists, chosen by the challenge owners, presented their proposals.
For the details of each challenge statement and finalist, please see the official website of “Singapore-Japan Fast Track Pitch Event 2024”: LINK.
■ Future Event Schedule
The next “Fast Track Pitch” will take place in Hanoi, Vietnam. Applications to the challenges by the six challenge owner companies will be open until September 1, 2024.
For the details, please see the official website of “Inno Vietnam-Japan Fast Track Pitch Event 2024”: LINK.
As we conclude, let’s reflect on the origin of this remarkable initiative. Marking the 50th anniversary of ASEAN-Japan friendship and cooperation in 2023, METI and JETRO introduced the ASEAN-Japan Co-Creation Fast Track Initiative. This initiative aims to foster open innovation by encouraging collaboration between startups, SMEs, and large corporations from both ASEAN and Japan. It embodies a fresh approach to cooperation, designed to spark new innovations.
Through the ASEAN-Japan Co-Creation Fast Track Initiative, startups and SMEs from both regions will benefit from comprehensive support. This includes (1) assistance from Japanese organizations such as JETRO and government agencies across ASEAN countries, as well as (2) access to major Japanese corporations and a diverse array of innovation ecosystems, including global companies based in ASEAN.
Additionally, finalists will receive additional points in the selection process in grant programs, including the Future Co-Creation Projects in the Global South Program, aimed at advancing their proofs of concept. For further details, please visit the website: LINK (available in Japanese only).
- METI Holds the Singapore-Japan Fast Track Pitch Event 2024 in Singapore to Accelerate Global Open Innovation of Japanese Companies/Startups/SMEs (English) (LINK)
Opening Plenary of the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) Meeting by Prime Minister Kishida
On August 2, 2024, Prime Minister Kishida attended the opening plenary of the APEC (Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation) Business Advisory Council (ABAC) meeting held in Tokyo, and gave a remark.
At the outset, Prime Minister Kishida Fumio extended a warm welcome to the first ABAC (APEC Business Advisory Council) meeting in Japan in six years. He expressed his honor in addressing ABAC Chair Torreblanca and business leaders from across the Asia Pacific region, reflecting on his extensive involvement with APEC. Since attending his first APEC ministerial meeting in Indonesia in 2013, Prime Minister Kishida has actively participated in several APEC meetings as both Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, emphasizing the critical importance of engaging with the business community and integrating their needs into policy-making.
The Japanese government has embraced the spirit of ‘co-creation,’ aligning its efforts with business voices and strengthening regional collaborations. Key areas of focus include green transformation, aimed at achieving decarbonization alongside economic growth, and digital transformation, which promotes inclusive growth through technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI). Prime Minister Kishida highlighted the value of ABAC’s innovative recommendations in addressing these complex challenges.
This ABAC meeting in Tokyo is a crucial opportunity to develop recommendations for the upcoming November summit. As the international community faces a pivotal moment, the role of ABAC, as the only advisory body to APEC leaders, is becoming increasingly significant. Prime Minister Kishida committed to actively supporting productive dialogue between ABAC members and APEC leaders at the summit. He concluded by wishing participants a pleasant stay in Japan and expressing gratitude to those who contributed to organizing the Tokyo meeting.
■ About ABAC: APEC (Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation) Business Advisory Council
The “APEC (Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation) Business Advisory Council (ABAC)” is a key advisory body established in 1995 to enhance the dialogue between the business community and APEC leaders, aimed at fostering economic growth and regional integration.
ABAC comprises influential business leaders from the 21 APEC member economies, which include Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, the United States, and Vietnam. Through its diverse membership and collaborative efforts, ABAC plays a vital role in shaping APEC’s economic strategies and initiatives.
For more details, please visit ABAC website, LINK.
- Opening Plenary of the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) Meeting (English) (LINK)
- APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) Official Website (English) (LINK)
Diplomatic Updates by Prime Minister Kishida
■ Letter of Condolence by Prime Minister Kishida, following the passing of H.E. Dr. Nguyen Phu Trong, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Viet Nam
On July 19, 2024, Prime Minister Kishida Fumio sent a letter of condolence to H.E. Mr. Pham Minh Chinh, Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, following the passing of H.E. Dr. Nguyen Phu Trong, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, on the same day.
In his letter, Prime Minister Kishida conveyed his deep sadness and surprise at the news of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong’s passing. On behalf of the Government and people of Japan, he extended his heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Vietnam, as well as to the bereaved family. Prime Minister Kishida also expressed profound respect for General Secretary Trong’s substantial contributions to Japan-Vietnam relations, highlighting his remarkable leadership in fostering close cooperation between the two countries as comprehensive strategic partners across a broad range of fields.
- Letter of Condolence by Prime Minister Kishida, following the passing of H.E. Dr. Nguyen Phu Trong, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Viet Nam (English) (LINK)
■ Congratulatory Message from Prime Minister Kishida to General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam
On August 3, 2024, Prime Minister Kishida Fumio of Japan sent a congratulatory letter to H.E. Mr. To Lam, General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, following his appointment on the same day.
In the letter, Prime Minister Kishida highlighted the strong cooperation between the two countries across various sectors and expressed his hope to further elevate the friendly bilateral relations in collaboration with Mr. To Lam.
- Congratulatory Message from Prime Minister Kishida to General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam (English) (LINK)
■ Japan-Laos Summit Telephone Talk
On August 8, 2024, Prime Minister Kishida Fumio of Japan held a 25-minute summit telephone conversation with H.E. Mr. Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
During the call, Prime Minister Kishida commended Prime Minister Sonexay for his leadership as ASEAN Chair and affirmed Japan’s full support for Laos’ success in this role. Prime Minister Sonexay expressed his pleasure at the strengthening of ties between their countries. The leaders agreed to work together to further enhance their “Strategic Partnership” in anticipation of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Laos next year. They also discussed arranging the 2nd Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Leaders Meeting to coincide with the ASEAN-related Summit Meetings in October, aiming to advance the AZEC initiative.
- Japan-Laos Summit Telephone Talk (English) (LINK)
Other Diplomatic Updates
■ Foreign Minister Kamikawa Visits Cambodia and the Philippines (July 5- 9, 2024)
《The Cambodia Visit》
○ Foreign Minister Kamikawa’s Courtesy Call on Prime Minister Hun Manet of the Kingdom of Cambodia
On July 6, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. local time, during her visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia, Ms. Kamikawa Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, paid a courtesy call on Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia. The overview is as follows;
Minister Kamikawa highlighted the expanding collaboration between Japan and Cambodia, focusing on strengthening Cambodia’s sustainability and creating social value through human resource development and Japanese technology. Prime Minister Hun Manet welcomed her visit, expressed appreciation for Japan’s longstanding support, and expressed a desire to advance cooperation under the “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.” Additionally, he expressed hope that Reserve Judge Motoro Noguchi, recently appointed to the Supreme Court Chamber of the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia, would contribute actively.
On bilateral relations, Minister Kamikawa expressed a strong desire to enhance cooperation with Cambodia in water management and digital technology, leveraging Japan’s expertise. She proposed advancing the Co-Creation for Common Agenda Initiative, focusing on developing core communication infrastructure, including 5G, and strengthening cybersecurity. Prime Minister Hun Manet acknowledged the significance of Japan’s water-related support and expressed interest in furthering digital and infrastructure development with Japan.
Minister Kamikawa also proposed collaboration to develop Sihanoukville Port as a regional logistics hub and announced an JPY 8 billion ODA loan for the Phnom Penh City Transmission and Distribution System Expansion Project. Prime Minister Hun Manet supported these initiatives and emphasized the importance of Sihanoukville Port’s development.
In security, Minister Kamikawa suggested increasing cooperation, including potential port calls by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), which Prime Minister Hun Manet welcomed. Additionally, Minister Kamikawa highlighted ongoing Japanese-Cambodian collaboration in humanitarian mine action and proposed further cooperation in third countries such as Ukraine. Prime Minister Hun Manet supported these efforts and discussed further collaboration in humanitarian mine action. Both sides also addressed Cambodia’s democratic development.
Lastly, on regional and international affairs, Minister Kamikawa and Prime Minister Hun Manet discussed various regional and international issues, including the East and South China Seas and the Israel-Palestine situation. They agreed to collaborate on international matters such as Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, North Korea, and the situation in Myanmar.
- Foreign Minister Kamikawa’s Courtesy Call on Prime Minister HUN Manet of the Kingdom of Cambodia (English) (LINK)
○ Foreign Minister Kamikawa’s Courtesy Call on Senate President Hun Sen of the Kingdom of Cambodia
On the same day, at 10:40 a.m. local time, Ms. Kamikawa Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, paid a courtesy call on Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia. The overview is as follows;
Minister Kamikawa congratulated Senate President Hun Sen on his appointment, expressing honor and respect for his significant role in Cambodia’s economic development and the Japan-Cambodia relationship. Senate President Hun Sen responded positively, expressing his happiness to reconnect with Minister Kamikawa and appreciating her congratulatory message.
On bilateral relations, Minister Kamikawa outlined Japan’s intention to collaborate with Cambodia on social infrastructure development, including water, digital infrastructure, maritime connectivity, and humanitarian mine action, focusing on human resource development and Japanese technology to enhance Cambodia’s sustainability and social value. Senate President Hun Sen expressed gratitude for Japan’s support in Cambodia’s peace and development and sought to strengthen cooperation in water management and mine action. They also discussed democratic development, the rule of law, maritime security, and attracting Japanese investment.
Lastly, on regional and international affairs, Minister Kamikawa and Senate President Hun Sen discussed regional and international issues, agreeing to collaborate on the situations in Myanmar, North Korea, Israel and Palestine, and Ukraine.
- Foreign Minister Kamikawa’s Courtesy Call on Senate President HUN SEN of the Kingdom of Cambodia (English) (LINK)
○ Foreign Minister Kamikawa visits to the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC)
On the same day, at 2:40 p.m. local time, H.E. Ms. Kamikawa Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs, visited the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) during her visit to Cambodia, and announced “Japan’s Comprehensive Package of Assistance to Humanitarian Mine Action” and the launch of “Japan-Cambodia Landmine Initiative.”
Minister Kamikawa was briefed by H.E. Mr. Heng Ratana, Director General of the CMAC, on its extensive 30-year history of humanitarian mine action in Cambodia. She learned that 20% of CMAC’s staff are women, reflecting their commitment to the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda. Minister Kamikawa expressed admiration for their work and highlighted Japan’s intent to engage in all phases of humanitarian mine action with a WPS perspective. She observed a CMAC demining demonstration using equipment supplied by the Japanese Government.
During the visit, Minister Kamikawa introduced “Japan’s Comprehensive Package of Assistance to Humanitarian Mine Action,” outlining Japan’s global vision for mine action. This package includes:
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(1) Triangular cooperation with Cambodia as a central hub,
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(2) Enhanced collaboration with like-minded countries and international organizations, and
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(3) The use of advanced science, technology, and innovation.
She also announced the “Japan-Cambodia Landmine Initiative,” which will focus on four key areas:
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(1) Raising awareness about the dangers of landmines and fostering international support for their reduction,
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(2) Establishing an international cooperation team within Cambodian organizations for a landmine-free world,
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(3) Supporting humanitarian mine action in third countries through Japan-Cambodia collaboration, and
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(4) Developing cutting-edge demining technologies.
- Foreign Minister Kamikawa visits to the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) (English) (LINK)
○ Japan-Cambodia Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
On the same day, at 5:00 p.m. local time, Ms. Kamikawa Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Sok Chenda Sophea, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia. After the meeting, the two ministers attended the signing ceremony.
At the outset, Deputy Prime Minister Sok Chenda welcomed Minister Kamikawa and expressed gratitude for Japan’s support, highlighting a Cambodian banknote featuring a bridge built with Japanese assistance. He also expressed his desire to further develop cooperation between the two countries under the “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” and announced Cambodia’s upcoming membership in the Conference on Cooperation among East Asian Countries for Palestinian Development (CEAPAD). Minister Kamikawa emphasized the expanding collaboration between Japan and Cambodia, focusing on social infrastructure, maritime connectivity, and humanitarian mine action.
The two ministers discussed three new cooperation approaches: (1) social infrastructure development, including water and sewage systems and digital technology; (2) strengthening maritime connectivity through Sihanoukville Port; and (3) advancing the Japan-Cambodia Landmine Initiative. Deputy Prime Minister Sok Chenda supported these approaches, aligning them with Cambodia’s development strategy. They also exchanged views on democratic development and economic relations.
Following the meeting, they signed ODA for two projects;
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(1) The National Road No. 5 Improvement Project (Thlea Ma’am - Battambang and Sri Sophorn - Poipet Sections) for up to JPY 8,293 million, to cater the urgent need to increase transport capacity and improve transport efficiency in order to cope with the increase in domestic and international logistics due to economic development. This project is expected to improve the strengthening of regional connectivity.
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(2) The Project for Human Resource Development Scholarship of up to JPY 386 million, to develop human resources as Cambodia has lost many talented citizens during the civil war that lasted for about 20 years since the 1970s and higher education institutions are still insufficient. This cooperation is expected to enable up to 26 young Cambodian administrators to study at Japanese universities, contributing to solving Cambodia’s future development challenges and further strengthening friendly relations between Japan and Cambodia.
- Japan-Cambodia Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (English) (LINK)
- Signing and Exchange of Notes Concerning Yen Loan and Grant Aid Projects to the Kingdom of Cambodia (English) (LINK)
○ Japan-Cambodia Working Dinner
On the same day, at 7:00 p.m. local time, Ms. Yoko Kamikawa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a working dinner with H.E. Mr. Sok Chenda Sophea, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia.
Minister Kamikawa expressed gratitude for the Cambodian hospitality and underscored the importance of upholding a free and open international order based on the rule of law, while emphasizing Japan’s commitment to collaborating with Cambodia based on their longstanding trust. The ministers discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation and regional and international issues, including Myanmar, North Korea, ASEAN-Japan relations, and Women, Peace, and Security (WPS). They agreed to advance their cooperation under a newly formulated approach, and the discussion was conducted in a cordial atmosphere.
- Japan-Cambodia Working Dinner (English) (LINK)
- Foreign Minister Kamikawa Visits Cambodia and the Philippines (July 5- 9, 2024) (English) (LINK)
《The Philippines Visit》
○ Foreign Minister Kamikawa’s Courtesy Call on President Marcos
On July 8, 2024, at 10:05 a.m. local time, Minister Kamikawa, joined by Mr. Kihara Minoru, Minister of Defense of Japan, paid a courtesy call on His Excellency Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., President of the Republic of the Philippines. The courtesy call was also attended by Hon. Enrique A. Manalo, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines, and Hon. Gilberto C. Teodoro, Minister of National Defense of the Republic of the Philippines. The overview is as follows;
President Marcos welcomed Minister Kamikawa and Minister Kihara and highlighted the importance of the Japan-Philippines Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), which was signed during the visit. Minister Kamikawa praised the RAA as a significant achievement and emphasized Japan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral coordination to uphold international order. She also outlined Japan’s plans to enhance regional deterrence, support infrastructure development, and boost economic cooperation. President Marcos expressed a desire to deepen bilateral ties and trilateral cooperation with the U.S. Both leaders agreed to collaborate closely on regional and global issues, including Women, Peace, and Security, and nuclear non-proliferation.
Prior to the event, Minister Kamikawa and Mr. KIHARA Minoru, Minister of Defense of Japan, offered flowers at Rizal Park, where a statue of Jose Rizal, a national hero who led the Philippine independence movement, is located.
- Foreign Minister KAMIKAWA's Courtesy Call on President Marcos (English) (LINK)
○ Signing of the Japan-Philippines Reciprocal Access Agreement
On the same day, at 10:45 a.m. local time, Minister Kamikawa, in the presence of His Excellency Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., President of the Republic of the Philippines, signed the Agreement between Japan and the Republic of the Philippines Concerning the Facilitation of Reciprocal Access and Cooperation between the Self-Defense Forces of Japan and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (“the Japan-Philippines Reciprocal Access Agreement”, or “the Japan-Philippines RAA”) with Hon. Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr., Secretary of National Defense of the Republic of the Philippines. The signing ceremony was attended by Mr. Kihara Minoru, Minister of Defense of Japan, and Hon. Enrique A. Manalo, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines.
The Japan-Philippines Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) outlines the procedures and legal status for cooperative activities between the forces of Japan and the Philippines when one country’s forces visit the other. The Philippines is the third nation, after Australia and the United Kingdom, with which Japan has signed this agreement. The RAA is expected to enhance joint exercises, disaster relief operations, and interoperability between the two countries’ forces. Amid a challenging regional security environment, this agreement strengthens security and defense cooperation with the Philippines, a key strategic partner, thereby supporting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Signing of the Japan-Philippines Reciprocal Access Agreement (English) (LINK)
- Foreign Minister KAMIKAWA's Courtesy Call on President Marcos (English) (LINK)
○ Japan-Philippines Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and Working Lunch
On the same day, at noon local time, Ms. Kamikawa Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a Japan-Philippines Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and Working Lunch with Hon. Enrique A. Manalo, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines. The overview of the Meeting is as follows;
Minister Kamikawa, visiting the Philippines for the first time in two years, emphasized Japan’s commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation. She expressed Japan’s dedication to supporting the free and open international order based on the rule of law and advancing relations through the newly signed Japan-Philippines Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA). The agreement aims to strengthen security and defense ties, and Minister Kamikawa highlighted the importance of deepening collaboration in areas such as the economy, people-to-people exchanges, and regional and international issues, with an eye on the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026.
In the security cooperation, Minister Kamikawa proposed increasing cooperation through the provision of coastal surveillance radar system under the Official Security Assistance (OSA), the strengthening of coordination among coast guards, and the provision of additional patrol vessels under Official Development Assistance (ODA). Minister Manalo appreciated Japan’s support and expressed a desire to enhance collaboration in these areas. Both ministers agreed to work on enhancing supply chain resilience, particularly for critical minerals, and to develop human resources for the semiconductor industry, as well as improving coordination on Open RAN and cybersecurity.
On economic, cultural, and People-to-People Exchange, Minister Kamikawa underscored Japan’s commitment to promoting trade and investment and assisting the Philippines in achieving upper middle-income status. She highlighted Japan’s support for infrastructure projects like the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 3. Both ministers welcomed new visa exemption measures for diplomatic passport holders and affirmed their commitment to increasing people-to-people exchanges and tourism.
Finally, Minister Kamikawa and Minister Manalo discussed the progress in Japan-Philippines-U.S. trilateral cooperation, including infrastructure, economic security, and defense. They also exchanged views on a range of regional and international issues, agreeing to continue joint efforts on matters such as the East and South China Seas, Ukraine, ASEAN, Myanmar, Israel and Palestine, and Women, Peace, and Security (WPS).
- Japan-Philippines Foreign Ministers' Meeting and Working Lunch (English) (LINK)
○ Second Japan-Philippines Foreign and Defense Ministerial Meeting (“2+2”)
On the same day, at 2:30 p.m. local time, Ms. Kamikawa Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, and Mr. Kihara Minoru, Minister of Defense of Japan, held the second Japan-Philippines Foreign and Defense Ministerial Meeting (“2+2”) with Hon. Enrique A. Manalo, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines and Hon. Gilberto C. Teodoro，Jr., Secretary of National Defense of the Republic of the Philippines.
The four Ministers from Japan and the Philippines held their first “2+2” meeting under the Marcos administration, emphasizing their shared values and commitment to strengthening security and defense cooperation. They agreed to enhance collaboration on regional and global issues to uphold a free and open international order based on the rule of law. The meeting marked a significant step in their strategic partnership, focusing on joint efforts to maintain maritime security and address common challenges.
The Ministers discussed the strategic environment, expressing strong opposition to any unilateral actions that alter the status quo in the East and South China Seas. They highlighted concerns over recent tensions at Second Thomas Shoal and called for adherence to international law. They also reaffirmed Japan’s support for peaceful dispute resolution and committed to continued cooperation on North Korean issues. Additionally, they reviewed progress in security and defense cooperation, including the Japan-Philippines Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), and agreed to advance multilateral cooperation with allies and like-minded countries, including Japan-Philippines-U.S. and Japan-U.S.-Australia-Philippines, focusing on economic security, cybersecurity, and nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, including the promotion of the commencement of FMCT negotiations.
- Second Japan-Philippines Foreign and Defense Ministerial Meeting (“2+2”) (English) (LINK)
○ Foreign Minister Kamikawa held an Informal Talk with President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB)
On July 9, 2024, Ms. Kamikawa Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held an informal talk with Mr. Asakawa Masatsugu, President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
President Asakawa briefed Minister Kamikawa on the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) evolving role and organizational management in response to urgent development challenges such as climate change, shifting socio-economic conditions among ADB members, and the needs of developing countries.
In reply, Minister Kamikawa emphasized the importance of collaboration with various stakeholders, including international organizations, and discussed strategies for mobilizing new funds. She and President Asakawa also exchanged views on leveraging private sector resources to support development efforts.
- Foreign Minister Kamikawa held an Informal Talk with President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) (English) (LINK)
○ Extraordinary Press Conference by Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko
On July 8, 2024, Minister Kamikawa Yoko summarized her visit to Cambodia and the Philippines, emphasizing Japan’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to deepen ties with ASEAN nations. She noted that her visit aligns with Japan’s broader strategy of fostering “heart-to-heart” connections with ASEAN members, as demonstrated in her previous trip and the 50th Anniversary Commemorative Summit.
In Cambodia, Minister Kamikawa highlighted the launch of the “Japan-Cambodia Landmine Initiative,” aimed at enhancing cooperation on humanitarian mine action through the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC). In the Philippines, she underscored the significance of the newly signed Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) in bolstering security and defense ties, as well as contributing to regional peace and stability. Her meetings with Philippine leaders reaffirmed the commitment to maintain a free and open international order based on the rule of law.
Minister Kamikawa also focused on initiatives for prosperity, including advancing social infrastructure and maritime connectivity. She outlined Japan’s continued support for infrastructure projects in both countries, such as the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 3 in the Philippines, and efforts to enhance economic and maritime cooperation. Looking ahead, she expressed optimism about future ASEAN-related meetings and Japan’s role in further strengthening relationships with ASEAN member states to promote peace and prosperity.
- Extraordinary Press Conference by Foreign Minister KAMIKAWA Yoko (English) (LINK)
- Foreign Minister Kamikawa Visits Cambodia and the Philippines (July 5- 9, 2024) (English) (LINK)
■ Japan-Laos Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
On July 26, 2024, Ms. Kamikawa Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who made an official visit to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Saleumxay Kommasith, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic in advance of attending ASEAN-related Foreign Ministers’ Meetings. The overview of the meeting is as follows;
At the outset, Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay expressed appreciation for Japan’s support during Laos’ ASEAN Chairmanship and sought to enhance bilateral relations in light of the 70th anniversary of Japan-Laos diplomatic ties next year. Minister Kamikawa praised Laos’ efforts and pledged Japan’s full support. Both ministers agreed to advance cooperation in political, economic, and cultural areas and discussed a logo for the anniversary.
On bilateral relations, Minister Kamikawa aimed to elevate the “Strategic Partnership” between Japan and Laos, focusing on economic and social development and improving Laos’ investment environment. Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay thanked Japan for its support and expressed a desire to broaden cooperation. Both agreed to continue their collaborative efforts.
Lastly, on Japan-ASEAN Cooperation, Regional, and International Affairs, Minister Kamikawa outlined Japan’s commitment to enhancing connectivity through the “Japan-ASEAN Comprehensive Connectivity Initiative,” which Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay strongly supported. Minister Kamikawa also welcomed Laos’ membership in CEAPAD and discussed various regional and international issues, including Myanmar, the Middle East, the East and South China Seas, North Korea, and Russia’s actions in Ukraine, affirming the importance of upholding a free and open international order based on the rule of law.
- Japan-Laos Foreign Ministers' Meeting (English) (LINK)
■ Japan-Indonesia Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
On July 26, 2024, Ms. Kamikawa Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who is visiting the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to attend the ASEAN-related Foreign Ministers’ meetings, held a meeting with H.E. Ms. Retno Lestari Priansari Marsudi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Indonesia. The overview is as follows;
At the outset, Minister Kamikawa expressed her pleasure in meeting Minister Retno again and emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration across various areas, including Women, Peace, and Security (WPS), to enhance the bilateral relationship between their Comprehensive Strategic Partner countries. In response, Minister Retno agreed on the importance of deepening their close partnership.
Minister Kamikawa outlined plans to bolster cooperation in economic areas, highlighting infrastructure projects such as the Jakarta Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and initiatives in decarbonization and energy, including the upcoming Second Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Ministerial Meeting to be held in Indonesia in August. She also emphasized the importance of working together to maintain a free and open international order based on the rule of law and advancing security cooperation. In response, Minister Retno supported these efforts and expressed a desire to enhance cooperation across these broad areas.
The two ministers discussed regional issues, including the East and South China Seas, and agreed to continue their collaborative efforts. They also addressed recent attacks on high-speed railways in France and concurred on the need for joint efforts to ensure the safety of the upcoming Olympic Games.
- Japan-Indonesia Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (English) (LINK)
■ Japan-Singapore Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
On July 27, 2024, Ms. Kamikawa Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who is visiting the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to attend the ASEAN-related Foreign Ministers’ meetings, held a meeting with H.E. Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Singapore. The overview is as follows;
Minister Kamikawa expressed her pleasure in meeting Minister Balakrishnan again and emphasized her commitment to enhancing Japan-Singapore relations, especially as Singapore assumes the role of ASEAN Country Coordinator for Japan this summer. She looked forward to the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026. Minister Balakrishnan agreed on the importance of deepening cooperation, particularly in digital and green sectors.
Minister Kamikawa highlighted Japan’s focus on strengthening cooperation with Singapore to uphold a free and open international order and advance security collaboration. She also emphasized plans for broader cooperation, including economic and human resource development, leveraging Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, and initiatives such as the Second Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Ministerial Meeting in August. Minister Balakrishnan supported these efforts and shared his desire for further cooperation in these areas.
The ministers also discussed regional issues, including the East and South China Seas, and agreed to continue their collaborative efforts.
- Japan-Singapore Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (English) (LINK)
Editorial Note
