Japan and the EU deepen economic ties as both sides agreed on a major new competitiveness alliance during a high-level meeting Wednesday. The deal is designed to boost trade, protect supply chains, and strengthen cooperation in innovation and defense.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa in Brussels. Together, they signed a joint declaration outlining the priorities of their expanded partnership.
The agreement comes at a strategic time. Japan has just finalized a separate trade deal with the United States that lowers auto tariffs from 25% to 15%. That deal helped reduce trade pressure, but Japan continues to diversify partnerships for long-term resilience.
Meanwhile, the EU also seeks reliable allies as global supply chains face disruptions. Both partners want to reinforce fair trade practices and reduce dependence on politically unstable markets.
According to the joint statement, the alliance includes commitments on trade, digital technology, clean energy, and economic security. It also calls for cooperation in research, especially in advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and semiconductors.
Importantly, Japan and the EU deepen economic ties while simultaneously stepping up their joint security efforts. The leaders agreed to open talks on an information security agreement. Additionally, they plan to improve collaboration between their defense industries.
Growing instability worldwide has made closer coordination essential. Russia’s war in Ukraine, China’s rising military pressure, and conflicts in the Middle East all contribute to the urgency.
The three leaders emphasized that challenges in Europe and Asia are now inseparable. They pledged to align efforts in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
Furthermore, they reaffirmed their commitment to a stable, rules-based global economy. They also expressed strong support for the World Trade Organization and multilateral reforms.
This deal builds on a growing Japan-EU partnership in both economic and strategic areas. As global powers shift, democratic allies are forging stronger connections.
In closing remarks, officials stressed that deeper ties will help both sides face future shocks more effectively. Japan and the EU deepen economic ties not only for shared growth, but for shared resilience.
