Thursday, January 15, 2009

Japan-Ireland Summit Meeting

Prime Minister Taro Aso held talks with Mr. Brian Cowen, Prime Minister of Ireland, who is on a working visit to Japan, at the Prime Minister's Office.

At the meeting, the leaders exchanged views on Japan-Ireland bilateral relations and the regional situation, among other matters. On bilateral economic relations, they agreed to hold the first round of intergovernmental negotiations during the first half of this year for the early conclusion of a social security agreement, and to promote exchanges of experts on information and communication technologies. The prime ministers also confirmed their intention to enhance bilateral cooperation in the international community on economic and financial situations, as well as on issues such as climate change and disarmament and nonproliferation.

Prime Minister Aso welcomed Prime Minister Cowen and the business delegation accompanying him and spoke about the development of bilateral relations since 2007, the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Ireland. He said, "I hope to further strengthen Japan's relations with Ireland, which shares basic values with Japan and holds similar positions on various international issues." Prime Minister Cowen stated, "I would like to express our appreciation for the invitation to visit Japan. I intend to further strengthen Ireland-Japan economic relations by taking advantage of this visit. We would also like to see Prime Minister Aso visit our country at a convenient time for him." Prime Minister Aso expressed his appreciation for the invitation.

Related Link

• Japan-Ireland Relations (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)