Japan-Canada Summit Meeting (Summary)
On Tuesday, September 24th, Prime Minister Abe visited Ottawa and had an hour and a half long summit meeting with the Rt Hon Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada. A brief summary of the meeting is as follows:
1.Opening Remark
Prime Minister Abe expressed his deepest condolences for the Canadians who have lost their lives in the recent terrorist shooting in Kenya.
2.Japan-Canada Relations
Both leaders confirmed that Japan and Canada share fundamental values as partners within the Asia Pacific region, and that they would deepen their cooperation and solidarity in political and security fields. Prime Minister Abe thanked Canada for the support it provided at the time of the Great East Japan Earthquake, and he reiterated his gratitude that Canada lifted the ban on Japanese food imports and travel limits promptly. Prime Minister Abe stressed the importance of security cooperation with Canada. Both prime ministers welcomed a substantial agreement on the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA). Prime Minister Abe’s explanation of Abenomics was received with high regard from Prime Minister Harper. Also, Prime Minister Abe stated that he hoped to further expand trade and investment through the TPP and Japan-Canada EPA negotiations. He stated that the TPP is strategically important and expressed his wish to cooperate with the negotiating countries including Canada, adding that he would continue to engage in Japan-Canada EPA negotiations while closely watching the progress of the TPP negotiations. Prime Minister Abe showed interest in importing inexpensive and stable LNG from Canada. In order to draw up concrete measures to achieve this plan, Prime Minister Abe instructed to advance substantial consultations immediately between the Ministers of Natural Resources and Energy from both countries, to which Canada agreed. Prime Minister Harper stated he would like to continue promoting Japan-Canada partnerships, especially in the energy sectors where the relationship between the two countries is complementary. Prime Minister Abe welcomed the progress of the Youth Exchange, the Sister City Exchange, and the Science and Technology Exchange.
3. Regional Affairs
With regard to North Korea, Prime Minister Abe pointed out that a strong message must be sent continuously that (1) North Korea’s Possession of nuclear weapons will not be tolerated and that (2) North Korea has to sincerely and completely implement a series of Security Council Resolutions. He also asked for continuous understanding and cooperation by Canada on the issue of the abduction of Japanese nationals by North Korea.
Prime Minister Abe explained Japan’s basic stance, that Japan-China relations are one of the most important bilateral relations of Japan, and Japan is ready for cooperation with China from a comprehensive standpoint. He also stated that Japan is always open for dialogues with China.
Both leaders welcomed the agreement made between the United States and Russia on September 14th, establishing a framework for the complete dismantlement of Syria’s chemical weapons. Prime Minister Abe expects a sincere response from Syria, and will keep a close eye on its actions.
4. Cooperation in the International Arena
Prime Minister Abe discussed domestic efforts in building a society where women can excel and shine. In terms of development, he stated Japan’s idea that maintaining human security would be the guiding principle in planning the post 2015 development goal. He wishes to work closely with Canada in doing so.
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