Foreign Minister Motegi Stresses Responsible AI and Data Governance
The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministerial Meeting 2025 began its first session on October 30 in Gyeongju, Republic of Korea, under the theme “Innovate and Prosper.” The meeting, chaired by Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Hyun, saw active participation from Japan’s Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Ryosei Akazawa. The session ran for nearly two hours, focusing on how innovation can support sustainable economic growth and digital transformation across the region.
Minister Motegi used the platform to highlight Japan’s commitment to promoting a secure and reliable digital environment. He underlined that the open nature of artificial intelligence and digital technologies brings both opportunities and challenges, especially concerning security and trust. Ensuring a safe, secure, and trustworthy AI society, he said, must be at the heart of future global cooperation.
Japan’s Leadership in AI Governance and International Standards
Motegi pointed out that Japan has been playing a leading role in shaping international AI governance frameworks. Through the “Hiroshima AI Process,” Japan has guided global efforts to create an inclusive and accountable approach to artificial intelligence. This initiative has already contributed to the development of an international standard for generative AI technologies.
Japan’s approach has gained significant traction, with more than 50 countries and regions—collectively known as the “Friends Group”—working together to implement these standards. Many of these partners are also APEC member economies. Motegi reaffirmed Japan’s intent to continue advancing these cooperative frameworks to ensure AI technologies remain beneficial and transparent for all.
Strengthening Digital Trade and Data Management in the APEC Region
Beyond AI, Japan also took the lead in discussions related to digital trade, particularly in the management of data flows and reducing barriers to AI adoption. Motegi stressed that building robust systems for cross-border data exchange is essential to support businesses, innovation, and fair competition. Japan’s efforts, he added, would continue to focus on capacity building, rulemaking, and inclusive growth within the APEC region.
Regional Cooperation for Sustainable Prosperity
The session witnessed active participation from ministers across APEC member economies. Delegates expressed appreciation to the Republic of Korea for successfully hosting the meeting and emphasized the importance of collaboration in facing emerging global challenges. Many highlighted the need for joint action in managing rapid technological shifts, including artificial intelligence, digital security, and democratic transitions.
There was a shared understanding that stronger regional cooperation could help accelerate economic growth while maintaining inclusivity and sustainability. The ministers agreed to push forward collective efforts to support innovation-driven development that benefits both the public and private sectors across the Asia-Pacific region.
Japan’s Vision for an Inclusive Digital Future
Japan’s active engagement at the APEC Ministerial Meeting 2025 reflects its broader vision for a future where technology and governance move hand in hand. Motegi reaffirmed that Japan would keep supporting initiatives that build trust in technology, promote responsible AI use, and strengthen data governance standards. The discussions in Gyeongju laid a foundation for deeper cooperation in innovation and sustainable prosperity across APEC economies.
As the world continues to adapt to the rapid pace of digital transformation, Japan’s contributions to AI governance and data management remain vital in shaping an open and secure digital future for the Asia-Pacific region.