The prime minister of Japan and president of Brazil have agreed to step up cooperation between their two countries. The two leaders held talks in Tokyo on Wednesday.
Ishiba Shigeru pointed out that this year marks the 130th anniversary of the countries' diplomatic ties. He said it is a great honor to welcome Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to Japan.
Ishiba also noted that Lula is Japan's first state guest after COVID-19 crisis.
Lula responded saying this year is a historic time for the two countries to revitalize their strategic partnership in a new way. Ishiba and Lula exchanged views on the situations in Ukraine, the Middle East and East Asia.
Ishiba said any unilateral attempt to change the status quo by force or coercion should not be tolerated anywhere in the world. The two leaders agreed to maintain communications.
They also confirmed that they will hold summits biennially and vowed to create a framework for dialogue among their foreign affairs and defense officials.
Regarding economic matters, Ishiba and Lula said their countries will further strengthen trade and investment relations. They confirmed the importance of the international trade system with the World Trade Organization at its core. This comes as US President Donald Trump's administration is introducing new tariffs.
At a joint news conference after their talks, Ishiba said working together with Brazil is essential as a partner for international cooperation amid deepening opposition and division in the international community. He added that Japan will further deepen its ties with Brazil in many fields.