Minister Joly meets with Japan’s Foreign Affairs Minister Hayashi

October 11, 2022- Tokyo, Japan - Global Affairs Canada

Canada is committed to elevating its strategic partnership with Japan both bilaterally and within the dynamic and fast-growing Indo-Pacific region.

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today met with Hayashi Yoshimasa, Foreign Affairs Minister of Japan, in Tokyo.

Reflecting on their deep bilateral relationship, bolstered by shared values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law, as well as rich people-to-people and cultural ties, the two ministers agreed to an ambitious Action Plan of initiatives to advance the countries’ shared priorities and contribute to a free and open Indo-Pacific region. The Action Plan provides a roadmap for future bilateral cooperation in six areas: 1) rule of law 2) peacekeeping operations, peacebuilding and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief 3) energy security 4) health security and responding to COVID-19 5) free trade promotion and trade agreement implementation; and 6) environment and climate change. 

Minister Joly reiterated Canada’s commitment to strengthen our engagement and deepen our cooperation with Japan on a wide range of issues such as support for the rules-based international order, including the rules-based multilateral trading system, supply chain resilience, climate change, disinformation and economic growth. Minister Joly reiterated Canada’s commitment to contribute to Japan’s economic security and our commitment to being a reliable provider of energy, food, critical minerals and emerging technologies.

The ministers welcomed the launch of negotiations for a General Security of Information Agreement that will facilitate information sharing and support defence procurement. The Agreement will contribute to deepening Canada’s security cooperation with Japan, improving interoperability between the Canadian and Japanese armed forces.

The ministers reiterated their condemnation of Russia’s illegal and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine. They also strongly condemned Russia’s continued attacks on Ukrainian civilians and civilian infrastructure. They pledged to continue to work together and within the G7 to maintain coordination and unity in response.

The ministers shared concerns over the human rights situation in Iran, and Minister Joly emphasized Canada’s solidarity for the brave women and all of those fighting for a future where human rights are respected.

The ministers also discussed shared concerns about regional security issues, including China’s escalatory and destabilizing actions in the Taiwan Strait, South China Sea and East China Sea. They condemned North Korea’s recent and continuing ballistic missile launches, which threaten peace, security and stability throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

Minister Joly reaffirmed Canada’s staunch support for Japan’s upcoming G7 Presidency. Both ministers looked forward to further constructive discussions.

Related product

• Backgrounder - Action Plan: Canada-Japan 6 Shared Priorities (shortened version)
• Backgrounder - Action Plan: Canada-Japan 6 Shared Priorities (full version)

Associated links

• Minister Joly to travel to South Korea and Japan
• Canada-Japan relations
• Minister Garneau and Japan’s Foreign Minister Motegi expand Indo-Pacific cooperation