Mark Carney Meets Japan PM Sanae Takaichi to Strengthen Canada–Japan Cooperation

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met with Japan’s Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae during an official visit to Tokyo, reinforcing the long-standing partnership between Canada and Japan.

The meeting highlighted the two countries’ shared commitment to strengthening cooperation in defence, trade, technology, and energy while responding to global economic and security challenges.

Leaders Highlight Strong Bilateral Relationship

During the meeting, Prime Minister Carney congratulated Prime Minister Takaichi on her recent election victory and reaffirmed the close relationship between the two nations.

Officials noted that Canada and Japan maintain strong diplomatic and economic ties built on shared democratic values and deep cultural connections. Bilateral trade between the two countries currently stands at nearly $40 billion, reflecting the importance of their economic partnership.

Both leaders agreed that increasing cooperation between Canada and Japan could create significant opportunities for workers, businesses, and families in both countries.

Expanding Defence and Security Cooperation

Security cooperation was a key focus of the talks.

Prime Ministers Carney and Takaichi discussed expanding collaboration between their defence sectors, including joint procurement projects and the development of dual-use technologies that serve both civilian and military purposes.

The leaders also explored future partnerships in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, aerospace development, and space communications.

Officials said these sectors are increasingly important as nations strengthen their capabilities in advanced defence and security technologies.

Agreements on Crisis Response and Maritime Security

During the meeting, the two governments discussed three bilateral memorandums designed to deepen operational cooperation between Canada and Japan.

One agreement focuses on crisis response coordination, allowing both countries to assist and evacuate citizens during international emergencies while improving information-sharing and contingency planning.

Another area of cooperation involves joint patrol coordination to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing in the North Pacific, an issue that affects marine ecosystems and coastal economies across the region.

A third memorandum will strengthen collaboration between the Canadian Coast Guard and the Japan Coast Guard through shared information, coordinated patrols, and joint exercises.

Officials say these initiatives aim to improve maritime security while protecting ocean resources.

Strengthening Trade and Energy Partnerships

Trade and energy cooperation were also high on the agenda.

Both leaders discussed opportunities to expand economic ties through collaboration on major energy projects, including liquefied natural gas, hydrogen development, nuclear technologies, and carbon capture solutions.

The two countries see strong potential for cooperation in clean energy development as they work toward long-term climate goals while ensuring energy security.

Officials say these partnerships could help diversify supply chains and increase energy resilience in the Indo-Pacific region.

Focus on Technology and Cybersecurity

The leaders also addressed growing concerns around global cybersecurity threats and emerging technologies.

They agreed to strengthen coordination on digital security, advanced technologies, and innovation partnerships.

Officials noted that closer collaboration in these areas could support economic growth while helping both countries address evolving security risks.

Invitation to Visit Canada

As the meeting concluded, Prime Minister Mark Carney invited Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae to visit Canada in the near future.

Both leaders agreed to maintain close contact and continue building cooperation across a wide range of strategic areas.

The discussions in Tokyo reflect the growing importance of the Canada-Japan partnership as both countries seek to strengthen economic ties, expand security cooperation, and address shared global challenges.