Japan PM Sees New Momentum in Ties During Kazakh President Tokayev’s Official Visit

Tokyo, The Gulf Observer: Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has expressed confidence that the official visit of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan will give fresh impetus to bilateral cooperation, according to the Akorda press service.

At a meeting held on Thursday, Prime Minister Takaichi warmly welcomed President Tokayev and highlighted the long-standing framework of engagement between Japan and Central Asia. She noted the 21-year history of the “Central Asia + Japan” Dialogue, recalling that President Tokayev had presided over the inaugural meeting of foreign ministers under the format. She also underscored his participation in the first-ever “Central Asia + Japan” Summit, this time in his capacity as President of Kazakhstan.

The Japanese Prime Minister emphasized that Japan views Kazakhstan as a strategic partner in supporting and strengthening a free and open international order based on the rule of law. She reaffirmed Tokyo’s readiness to continue close cooperation with President Tokayev to further develop mutually beneficial relations between the two countries.

During the talks, the two sides held in-depth discussions on expanding cooperation across a wide range of areas, including trade and economic relations, investment, transport and logistics, energy, as well as cultural and humanitarian exchanges.

Media earlier reported that President Tokayev expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome extended to his delegation during the talks with Prime Minister Takaichi. A ceremonial welcoming event for the Kazakh President was also held at the Office of the Prime Minister of Japan on Thursday.

President Tokayev arrived in Japan for an official visit on December 17. As part of the visit, he held talks with Emperor Naruhito, during which he said that Japan has long inspired the people of Kazakhstan with its discipline and resilience. Emperor Naruhito later hosted an official reception in honor of the President of Kazakhstan.

The Kazakh leader also visited the Meiji Jingu Shrine, the largest Shinto shrine in Tokyo, met with Kazakh citizens studying and working in Japan, and held discussions with members of the Japanese Parliamentary League of Friendship with Kazakhstan, led by Toshiaki Endo.

According to media, the visit is expected to open new avenues for cooperation between Astana and Tokyo, building on shared values and expanding partnership into emerging areas of mutual interest.