During two critical meetings, Prime Minister Abe’s visit to France
in May 2019, followed by President Macron’s visit to Japan in June of
the same year, several elements were highlighted that demonstrate
a close convergence of analysis on the strategic situation in the
Indo-Pacific region. This convergence paves the way for increased
opportunities for cooperation. Internal evolutions on defense-related
issues in Japan since 2012 have made this type of cooperation
more accessible. On the French side, a more assertive ambition for
engagement in a critical area has been expressed on many occasions.
Topic:
Diplomacy, International Cooperation, Bilateral Relations, Territorial Disputes, and Strategic Stability
For both Japan and the European Union, deepening their
partnership in an increasingly unstable world has become an
essential element, if not yet a priority. Since he came to power in
2012, Prime Minister Abe and his cabinet understand the importance
of expanding cooperation opportunities for Japan beyond the scope
of traditional alliances in order to implement the concept of proactive
contribution to peace. This is also a priority for the European Union,
that, like its most prominent member States, understands that the
EU’s Asia policy cannot be summed up to its relations with China.
Topic:
Bilateral Relations, European Union, Partnerships, and Strategic Stability