[Provisional Translation]
On September 22, commencing at 2:35 p.m. for approximately 15 minutes, Ms. TAKAICHI Sanae, Prime Minister of Japan, who is visiting New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly, held a summit meeting with H.E. Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, President of the Republic of Türkiye.
1. Prime Minister TAKAICHI expressed her pleasure at being able to meet in person following last month’s telephone call, and stated that Japan-Türkiye relations can be likened to “two wings supporting the vast expanse of Asia from the east and the west.” She added that Japan seeks to elevate the Strategic Partnership between Japan and Türkiye to even greater heights. She went on to state that Japan wishes to deepen cooperation in the field of education through the Turkish-Japanese Science and Technology University (TJU), which will open in October this year; to further strengthen economic relations through the early conclusion of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA); and to deepen defense cooperation, including in the field of defense equipment and technology.
2. Regarding the situation surrounding Iran, Prime Minister TAKAICHI highly appreciated Türkiye’s efforts in playing a mediating role, and pointed out that it is extremely important for the international community as a whole, including Japan, to de-escalate the situation at an early date and stabilize the region, and all vessels can ensure free and safe navigation without any additional costs, as before.
3. In response, President Erdoğan offered his congratulations on the opening of TJU and stated that he wishes to further advance bilateral cooperation across a wide range of fields, including education, economy, and defense. He also expressed his intention to maintain close coordination on international issues, including the situation surrounding Iran and the Palestinian issue.
4. The two leaders concurred to continue close communication.