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Japan-France Summit Friday, April 11, 2008 JAPANESE

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Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda held talks with Mr. Francois Fillon, the Prime Minster of the French Republic, at the Prime Minister's Official Residence. At the start of the talks, Prime Minister Fukuda welcomed Prime Minister Fillon's visit to Japan in the year that marks the 150th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and France. In that light, Prime Minister Fukuda expressed his intention to further strengthen the relations between the two countries. During the talks, the two leaders discussed bilateral cooperation, international situations and other issues. At a joint press conference that followed, Prime Minister Fukuda said, "This year marks the 150th anniversary of the establishment of Japan-France diplomatic relations. We have agreed that Japan, chairing the G8 Summit this year, and France, assuming the Presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU) from July onward, will join hands to work on various issues faced by the international community, such as climate change and African development. The two countries have also confirmed their cooperation under the joint declarations that encompass bilateral economic ties and a nuclear agreement. Japan will strengthen nuclear cooperation with France. This visit by Prime Minister Fillon has provided us with a good opportunity to further deepen our friendly relations. I am eager to continue cooperating with the Government of France and Prime Minister Fillon." Related link: Japan-France Relations (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan) Visit to Japan of His Excellency Mr. Franc,ois Fillon, Prime Minister of the French Republic and Mrs. Pe'ne'lope Fillon (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan)