Japan and the United Arab Emirates affirmed on Monday the importance of enhancing bilateral relations and maintaining close cooperation to stabilize the global crude oil market.

The Japanese government stated in an official release that this came during talks in Tokyo between Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology Sultan Al Jaber.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Strategic Partnership

   • PM Ishiba emphasized Japan's commitment to its "comprehensive strategic partnership" with the UAE

   • Expressed hope to expand cooperation across multiple sectors

2. Energy Security

   • Both sides stressed continued collaboration to stabilize crude oil markets

   • Discussed the ongoing negotiations for a Japan-UAE Economic Partnership Agreement

3. Energy Appreciation

   • Ishiba thanked the UAE for its long-term, stable crude oil supplies to Japan

   • Acknowledged UAE's inclusion of Japanese companies in oil field development projects

4. Expo 2025 Osaka

   • Reaffirmed close coordination for the successful hosting of Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai

   • Note: The World Expo officially opened Saturday before welcoming visitors Sunday, beginning a six-month event with record participation from 158 countries/regions

Diplomatic Significance:

• Meeting occurs amid volatile oil markets and OPEC+ production adjustments

• Highlights Japan's energy security strategy with a top crude supplier

• Underscores growing economic ties beyond energy (technology, infrastructure)

Statement Excerpts:
"The UAE remains a cornerstone of Japan's energy security," PM Ishiba noted, while Minister Al Jaber called Japan "a priority economic partner in Asia."

(For context: UAE supplies ~25% of Japan's crude imports, with bilateral trade exceeding $30 billion annually.)