Japanese and German leaders make joint declaration on economic security and expand cooperation on defense and AI - Merz eager to participate in fighter jet development

On the 28th, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met with German Chancellor Merz at the Prime Minister's Office. They discussed the trends of China, which is increasing its hegemonic behavior, and Russia, which continues to invade Ukraine, and confirmed the expansion of cooperation in the economic and defense fields. A leaders' declaration regarding cooperation in cutting-edge science and technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), and economic security was compiled.

At a joint press conference, Takaichi emphasized, ``European-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security are inseparable.'' ``Japan and Germany share interests and values, and by working together we can prevent the major powers from doing what they want,'' Merz said, expressing his intention to work together to respond to moves by the United States, China, and Russia that threaten to shake up the international order.

Regarding security cooperation, Takaichi said, ``We will consider opportunities and frameworks that will help deepen cooperation between forces, and promote cooperation in the defense industry field where we can complement each other.'' ``I would like to consider the possibility of cooperation in the production of fighter jets,'' Merz said, expressing his desire to participate in the ``Global Combat Aviation Program (GCAP)'' between Japan, the UK, and Italy.

The two leaders agreed to strengthen the supply chain for strategic materials, keeping in mind China's export restrictions on important minerals and semiconductors. They agreed to launch an AI high-level dialogue. Mr. Merz invited Mr. Takaichi to visit Berlin next year.

The two leaders also exchanged views regarding the Indo-Pacific and the situation in Ukraine. Merz expressed concern about rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait, and called on relevant countries and regions to act with caution, stating that ``the United Nations Charter's principle of prohibiting the use of force applies.''

Meanwhile, Takaichi stated at a joint press conference, ``We confirmed the importance of mutually beneficial consideration of the interests of both parties when it comes to industrial support measures.'' This appears to be due to the fact that Japan has been excluded from the European Union's (EU)-led preferential policy for ``Made in Europe'' cars led by Germany and France.

Germany is aiming to break away from dependence on the United States and China in terms of trade, and would like to strengthen its relationship with Japan. Approximately 30 business executives accompanied Mertz to sign a total of 33 memorandums of understanding between the public and private sectors and companies in cutting-edge fields such as nuclear fusion.

After the meeting, the two leaders had dinner together. This is Merz's first visit to Japan since taking office last May, and his first meeting with Takaichi since November last year.