Minister Joly to strengthen Canada-Japan relations and discuss regional security and economic cooperation during her visit from July 22 to 24, 2024.
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, is set to embark on a pivotal visit to Japan from July 22 to 24, 2024.
This trip underscores the enduring partnership between Canada and Japan, focusing on bolstering political and economic ties while addressing critical regional security issues.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Minister Joly’s agenda in Tokyo includes a key meeting with Japan’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, KAMIKAWA Yoko. The discussion will center around the Canada-Japan Action Plan, aiming to enhance cooperation for a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
This meeting will also spotlight priorities for Canada’s upcoming G7 presidency in 2025.
Discussion Points
The Ministers will explore:
- Political and economic ties
- Regional and global peace
- Security challenges
- Military cooperation between North Korea and Russia
- Tensions in the Indo-Pacific
- The situation in the Middle East
- Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
These discussions reflect the shared values and strategic interests that underpin Canada-Japan relations.
Economic and Multilateral Cooperation
Canada and Japan have a longstanding history of economic collaboration. In 2023, Canada’s exports to Japan were valued at $15.8 billion, while imports stood at $20.7 billion.
This economic partnership is crucial for both nations, contributing to their growth and stability.
Economic Highlights
- Exports to Japan: $15.8 billion (2023)
- Imports from Japan: $20.7 billion (2023)
- Key Sectors: Automotive, technology, and fisheries
Canada and Japan also work together in various multilateral organizations, including the G7, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), and the United Nations, further cementing their global cooperation.
Strategic Meetings and Engagements
Apart from meeting with Minister Kamikawa, Minister Joly will engage with Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary, HAYASHI Yoshimasa. These high-level discussions will reaffirm Canada’s commitment to strengthening ties with Japan and collaborating on regional security and economic issues.
Meeting with Chief Cabinet Secretary
- At the outset, Minister Kamikawa stated that she is glad to have a bilateral meeting today after the last one held in Montreal this January. She felt that Canada has a strong commitment in the Indo-Pacific region and sees the region as the new key to its growth, and is keen to strengthen cooperation with Japan. Minister Kamikawa also stated that she would like to have a discussion with Minister Joly to further advance Japan-Canada cooperation and cooperation within G7 in the international issues, as well as cooperation through the Japan-Canada Action Plan.
- Minister Kamikawa welcomed that the ‘Japan-Canada Action Plan for contributing to a free and open Indo-Pacific region’ has steadily progress and that new cooperation are being advanced in the joint exercises and surveillance activities of illegal, unregisterd and unregulated (IUU) fishing. Minister Kamikawa further expressed her gratitude to Canada’s participation in the FMCT Friends.
- The two Ministers concurred to continue to work together to promote bilateral cooperation on economic issues, including the establishment of a comprehensive EV value chain. The two Ministers also concurred to keep promoting a bilateral cooperation in the areas of Women, Peace and Security (WPS) as well as in the Arctic.
- The two Ministers exchanged their views on the Indo-Pacific regional affairs including China, Southeast Asian and Pacific Island countries, and North Korea situation such as its nuclear and missile programs and the abductions issue.
Commitment to the Indo-Pacific
Canada views the Indo-Pacific as a critical region for its strategic interests. Minister Joly’s visit to Japan highlights Canada’s proactive stance in promoting peace and stability in this area.
Both nations are committed to contributing to a free and open Indo-Pacific, addressing security challenges, and fostering economic growth.
Shared Objectives
- Peace and Security: Tackling regional conflicts and tensions
- Economic Growth: Strengthening trade and investment
- Multilateral Cooperation: Enhancing collaboration in global forums
Canada-Japan Trade Statistics
Year |
Exports to Japan (CAD) |
Imports from Japan (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $14.5 billion | $19.8 billion |
| 2023 | $15.8 billion | $20.7 billion |
This table illustrates the steady growth in trade between the two countries, emphasizing the importance of their economic relationship.
Final Thoughts
Minister Joly’s visit to Japan is a testament to the robust and dynamic partnership between Canada and Japan. Through high-level meetings and strategic discussions, both nations aim to strengthen their bilateral ties, address regional security issues, and promote economic cooperation.
This visit not only reaffirms Canada’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific region but also sets the stage for enhanced collaboration under Canada’s upcoming G7 presidency.
As Minister Joly aptly put it,
“The long-standing friendship and partnership between Canada and Japan are built on shared values and strong collaboration. I look forward to discussing ways to advance our shared objectives and contribute to peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.”
Canada and Japan’s diplomatic relations date back to 1928, and the enduring partnership continues to thrive on mutual respect and shared goals.
Through continued cooperation and dialogue, both nations are poised to tackle the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century together.
Sources: THX News, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan & Global Affairs Canada
