Japan and Luxembourg Strengthen Ties and Expand Cooperation during Foreign Ministers' Meeting

Japan's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ms. KAMIKAWA Yoko, hosted a dinner in honor of H.E. Mr. Xavier BETTEL, Vice Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Luxembourg, during his visit to Japan. During the meeting, the two ministers exchanged Notes Verbale regarding the introduction of the Japan-Luxembourg Working Holiday Programme, signifying a step towards deeper cultural and economic ties.

Minister Kamikawa expressed her anticipation for strengthened bilateral relations through initiatives like the Working Holiday Programme and the Agreement between Japan and Luxembourg for Air Services, which is in principle agreement. She also welcomed Luxembourg's involvement in Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, and its potential to enhance business opportunities between the two nations.

Vice Prime Minister Bettel expressed his condolences for the recent Noto Peninsula Earthquake and conveyed his enthusiasm for the Expo. He emphasized the importance of the upcoming Expo in Osaka and expressed his commitment to strengthening relations with Japan, including cooperation for the Expo's success.

The ministers highlighted the close ties between the Imperial Household and the Grand Ducal Household as crucial to bilateral relations. They also discussed cooperation in various fields, including finance, space, pharmaceuticals, and business startups, with a focus on space activities and assistance to developing countries. They agreed on the inseparability of Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security and discussed matters concerning Ukraine, the Middle East, China, Taiwan, and North Korea, emphasizing their intent to collaborate closely.