Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will visit Vietnam and Australia for talks with their leaders during a five-day trip starting Friday. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara announced the plans on Tuesday, emphasizing efforts to deepen economic and security ties amid Middle East tensions and China's regional assertiveness.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara announced on Tuesday that Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will depart Friday for a five-day trip to Vietnam and Australia. The visit aims to bolster economic and security ties as Japan works to fortify supply chains for critical resources amid the Middle East conflict and China's assertive actions in the region.
"Strengthening our relations with Vietnam, one of the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia, and with Australia, a core partner among like-minded nations, is extremely important for realizing a free and open Indo-Pacific," Kihara said at a regular press conference.
In Vietnam on Saturday, Takaichi will meet President and Communist Party leader To Lam, as well as Prime Minister Le Minh Hung. The talks will reaffirm the comprehensive strategic partnership, focusing on economic security areas like energy and critical minerals. She will also deliver a speech outlining her vision for evolving Japan's free and open Indo-Pacific policy, marking the 10th anniversary of the initiative launched by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
In Australia on Monday, she will hold discussions with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to elevate their strategic partnership, with enhanced cooperation in national and economic security. The visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Japan-Australia basic treaty of friendship and cooperation.
