Japan-France Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
On November 13, Foreign Minister MOTEGI Toshimitsu, during his visit to Canada for the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, held a bilateral discussion with H.E. Mr. Jean-Noël BARROT, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France. The meeting lasted approximately 30 minutes.
Minister Motegi expressed Japan’s intention to work closely with France—an “Exceptional Partner” and fellow Indo-Pacific nation—to promote a free and open international order based on the rule of law. Minister Barrot congratulated Minister Motegi on his appointment and agreed to strengthen cooperation across multiple areas, including economic and security domains. The ministers discussed ongoing global challenges, including the situations in Ukraine and East Asia, and reaffirmed collaboration on North Korea-related concerns, encompassing nuclear, missile, and abduction issues. They also confirmed continued coordination within the G7 framework, which France will chair next year.
G7 Foreign Ministers’ Session on Energy Security and Critical Minerals
Minister Motegi participated in the G7 session on “Energy Security and Critical Minerals” in Niagara, Canada, held as a working lunch for approximately 75 minutes. The meeting was attended by G7 Foreign Ministers, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, and counterparts from invited countries, including India, Ukraine, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, South Africa, and Mexico.
The session addressed global challenges related to energy security and the critical minerals supply chain. Participants voiced concern over non-market practices that disrupt supply stability. Minister Motegi highlighted Japan’s apprehension regarding China’s export control measures on rare earths, though noting their postponement. He emphasized strengthening economic resilience through diversification and cooperation among like-minded countries to reduce dependencies.
Minister Motegi reiterated Japan’s commitment to securing a stable supply of critical minerals through coordinated efforts on both demand and supply sides. He underscored Japan’s initiatives in this sector and its intention to work closely with the G7 and partner nations to build a reliable and sustainable global supply network.
State Minister HORII’s Visit to Bolivia for Presidential Inauguration
From November 8 to 11, Mr. HORII Iwao, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, visited the Plurinational State of Bolivia as Ambassador on Special Mission to attend the inauguration ceremony of President Rodrigo PAZ PEREIRA. During the visit, he met key leaders and engaged with the Japanese community in Bolivia to strengthen bilateral relations.
Attendance at Presidential Inauguration
On November 8, Ambassador HORII attended the inauguration ceremony of President Rodrigo Paz Pereira. The event was attended by leaders from Latin America, including the Presidents of Argentina, Paraguay, Ecuador, Chile, and Uruguay, as well as U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau. Following the ceremony, he attended a luncheon hosted by President Paz, where he deepened relations with dignitaries from various countries.
Meetings with Bolivian Leadership
Ambassador HORII made a courtesy call on President Paz on November 10, delivering a personal letter from Prime Minister TAKAICHI Sanae conveying congratulations and Japan’s intent to strengthen ties. Highlighting the 110th anniversary of Japan-Bolivia diplomatic relations and the 125th anniversary of Japanese immigration to Bolivia in 2024, he emphasized future cooperation, including Bolivia’s participation in Expo 2025 Osaka. President Paz expressed appreciation and reaffirmed Bolivia’s commitment to deepening international engagement, identifying Japan as a key partner.
On November 8, HORII also met Vice President Edman LARA MONTAÑO to discuss development cooperation, economic partnership, and support for the Nikkei community. On November 10, he met Foreign Minister Fernando ARAMAYO CARRASCO, with whom he exchanged views on bilateral and global issues, expressing optimism for deeper cooperation under the new Bolivian administration.
Visits to Japanese Settlements and Nikkei Communities
On November 9, Ambassador HORII visited the San Juan and Okinawa Japanese settlements in Santa Cruz Department. He paid tribute at the San Juan memorial, toured cultural centers and museums, and interacted with representatives of Nikkei associations. Expressing gratitude for their contributions to Bolivia’s society, he encouraged their continued role as a cultural and diplomatic bridge between the two nations. Additionally, he met Japanese association members, language educators, and business representatives to discuss ongoing community and educational challenges.