At the plenary session in Strasbourg on Wednesday 13 December, MEPs adopted the report by Reinhard Bütikofer (Greens/EFA, German) establishing relations between the EU and Japan by 559 votes to 32 with 44 abstentions.
“It has been at least 10 years since we last looked at the wider relationship between the EU and Japan, and this is despite Japan being one of our most important and closest partners”, said Mr Bütikofer in the Chamber during the vote.
“Relations have expanded considerably in the economic sphere, as well as in security, research and development, the development of high-quality infrastructure, the digital transition and the environment”, he added, explaining that this report was an opportunity to take stock of the relationship and the objectives to be pursued with Japan.
The report highlights Japan’s support for Ukraine, including financial assistance, and the adoption of sanctions against Russia. Emphasis is also placed on supporting the EU’s commitment to peace in the Indo-Pacific region.
The text also calls for stronger cooperation between the EU and Japan to develop balanced relations with the countries of the South, and encourages Japan to join Horizon Europe to strengthen cooperation in the field of science, research and innovation.
To see the report: https://aeur.eu/f/a4m (Original version in French by Pauline Denys)