5. The two leaders recognised the importance of sharing strategic vision between Japan
and New Zealand and determined to strengthen exchanges of views between the two
countries including through holding regular dialogues between leaders, foreign ministers
and defence ministers, with a view to promoting closer bilateral ties and deepening our
coordination on regional and global challenges.
Security and Defence cooperation
6. The two leaders emphasised the importance of enhancing the two countries’ bilateral
and regional security and defence cooperation through substantive initiatives such as
cooperation in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and maritime security. Both
leaders shared the view that it was important for the respective Governments to continue
to work closely together on cyber security and matters of economic security.
7. The two leaders expressed their intention to strengthen, in cooperation with other
partners in the Pacific Islands region, coordination and information sharing on Pacific
priorities, including on climate change as the single greatest threat to the livelihoods,
security and wellbeing of the peoples of the Pacific, maritime security, and humanitarian
assistance and disaster relief.
8.
Both leaders emphasised the importance of cooperation between the Japan SelfDefense Forces and the New Zealand Defence Force. They noted the close partnership
demonstrated during recent deployments of Royal New Zealand Air Force aircraft to
Japan. Prime Ministers welcomed that the two countries would develop coordination
towards conducting Japan-New Zealand bilateral exercises as opportunities arise.
Economic relationship and Reconnection
9.
Over the last 50 years New Zealand and Japan have developed a strong economic
partnership, especially related to food, based on natural complementarities and strong
business relationships. The two leaders reaffirmed the importance of strengthening the
partnership in food and agriculture, and reiterated the importance of promoting the
bilateral economic relationship and acknowledged that there is scope for further growth
particularly in the digital, technology, services and space sectors. They also emphasised
the importance of promoting collaboration in addressing the economic challenges facing
the region such as climate change, supply chain security and COVID-19 recovery. Prime
Minister Ardern acknowledged that Japanese companies are important long-term
investors in New Zealand’s economy.
10.
Both leaders welcomed the recent development of space cooperation between
government and private sectors, particularly in technologies which generate new
economic opportunities, while solving critical problems which contribute to the continued
safe and sustainable use of space. Prime Minister Kishida welcomed the New Zealand
government’s initiative to invest in joint research in the area of Advanced Technologies,
which would strengthen cooperative activities in science and technology between the two
countries. Furthermore, the leaders also affirmed to cooperate in clean energy, such as
hydrogen, geothermal energy, and e-vehicles.
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