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Foreign ministers

Japan and GCC Strengthen Strategic Partnership

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya emphasized the significance of the strategic partnership between Japan and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, highlighting the importance of strengthening cooperation in various fields to contribute to regional and international security and stability. The minister's statements were made during the second joint ministerial meeting of the GCC-Japan Strategic Dialogue, where he praised GCC countries for their commitment to stable energy supplies and their leadership in global energy market stability. Iwaya also expressed Japan's interest in cooperating with GCC members on green transition and clean energy, positioning the Middle East as a major hub for clean energy resources.

Key Takeaways:

  • Japan attaches great importance to deepening cooperation with GCC states in humanitarian, developmental, political, and security areas of vital mutual concern.
  • GCC countries supply over 90 percent of Japan's crude oil needs, with the minister praising their commitment to stable supplies and leadership in global energy market stability.
  • Japan is interested in cooperating with GCC members on green transition and clean energy, including hydrogen and ammonia, to help position the Middle East as a major hub for clean energy resources.
  • Dialogue between Japan and GCC also covers advanced technology, education, culture, and agriculture, aligning with global sustainable development goals and promoting mutual understanding.
  • The Tokyo International Conference on African Development highlighted Japan's keenness to cooperate with Indian Ocean and Middle Eastern states to boost regional integration and industrial growth in Africa.
  • GCC participation in Expo Osaka 2025, hosted in Japan, reflects deep relations and mutual cooperation, opening broader opportunities for cultural and knowledge exchange.

Statistics:

  • Japan receives over 90 percent of its crude oil needs from GCC countries (Kuwait News Agency).
  • Japan's cooperation with GCC members on green transition and clean energy aims to position the Middle East as a major hub for clean energy resources (Kuwait News Agency).

Sources:

  • (Kuwait News Agency, 01 Sep 2025)

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