On Monday, UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan received Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who is on an official visit to the country as part of a Gulf tour focusing on securing energy supplies and providing Japanese green technology. A formal reception ceremony was held for Kishida upon his arrival at the Al Watan Palace in Abu Dhabi, where a 21-gun salute was fired, and a contingent of the honor guard stood in salute. A group of children waved the flags of both countries, chanting welcoming phrases.
The UAE President escorted the guest to the platform of honor, where the national anthems of both nations were played. Officials had anticipated that "Kishida would meet with President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and attend the UAE-Japan Business Forum in Abu Dhabi." Kishida is expected to travel to Qatar, a major gas producer, on Tuesday.
According to Saudi news agency, "Kishida and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman agreed to launch the 'Manar' initiative, which will help countries worldwide achieve net-zero emissions." The Emirates News Agency reported that the two leaders discussed a comprehensive strategic partnership between the UAE and Japan and signed several agreements across various sectors.
The Japanese Foreign Ministry stated that "Tokyo and Riyadh are set to begin a new strategic dialogue at the level of foreign ministers." The statement added, "The leaders agreed to further invigorate exchanges covering politics, diplomacy, and security between the two countries."
Japanese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hikariko Ono mentioned that Japan and the Gulf Cooperation Council will resume talks in 2024 regarding a free trade agreement. Ono added, "We do not really have a specific year target to complete the negotiations," noting that previous trade discussions with Gulf states were suspended in 2009.
Kishida's visit to the UAE follows a visit to Saudi Arabia, where Riyadh reaffirmed its commitment to securing oil supplies for Japan and will continue cooperation with Tokyo on clean hydrogen, ammonia, and fuels derived from carbon recycling.
