Today, I held a Japan-Italy summit meeting with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
During our summit meeting in Tokyo in January, Giorgia extended an invitation for me to visit Italy, and I am truly delighted to have realized that visit on this occasion.
At the previous meeting, we confirmed further collaboration between our two countries in bilateral relations and on the international stage, building on our status as a “special strategic partner” with Italy.
In particular, we agreed to further promote cooperation in economic security (including energy), economic relations, and science and technology (including space).
On this visit, I welcome the issuance of documents between Japan and Italy, such as the “Japan-Italy Joint Statement on Space Cooperation,” the “Memorandum of Cooperation on Supply Chain Resilience,” and the “Statement of Intent on Cooperation between Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology and Italy’s Ministry of University and Research.”
Moreover, the two leaders expressed expectations that the “Messina Strait Bridge Construction Project,” in which Japanese companies are participating, will become a major endeavor symbolizing future economic cooperation between our countries.
Furthermore, on security matters, we agreed to accelerate collaboration related to the joint development of next-generation fighter aircraft (GCAP) among Japan, Italy, and the United Kingdom.
We also engaged in in-depth discussions on regional situations, including the Middle East and East Asia, and agreed to persistently pursue the necessary diplomatic efforts in coordination with the international community.
Doria Pamphili Palace, where this summit meeting took place, is a historic building constructed in the 17th century, and I was struck by its beautiful architecture and gardens.
In its serene atmosphere, we were able to delve deeply into our discussions.
I express my gratitude for Giorgia’s warm hospitality.
I have heard that in Italy, people who are working hard are greeted with “Buon lavoro.”
Literally translated, it means something like “Good work,” and I believe it reflects the sincere regard that Italian society holds for work.
Going forward, together with Giorgia, I look forward to deepening the close ties between Japan and Italy, addressing various challenges in the international community, and doing “good work.”
: Sanae Takaichi
Prime Minister of Japan