Japan and Canada Elevate Relations to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met with visiting Canadian Prime Minister Carney last Friday, confirming the elevation of their bilateral relations to a 'comprehensive strategic partnership.' According to Ming Pao, both leaders agreed on shared values of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law, and decided to initiate a bilateral economic security dialogue to strengthen the supply chain of critical minerals. They also plan to expand cooperation in defense and trade, including joint exercises between Japan's Self-Defense Forces and the Canadian military. Takaichi emphasized the increased importance of Japan-Canada relations in the current international climate and expressed hope for extensive exchanges to further develop bilateral ties. Carney highlighted the deepening of security and defense cooperation through information sharing and technology transfer. This visit marks Carney's first trip to Japan since assuming office as Prime Minister in March of last year.