The Fourth Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM4) opened on this day. In the morning political dialogue took place and the "ASEM Copenhagen Political Declaration for Peace on the Korean Peninsula" was adopted. In relation to Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi's visit to North Korea, the declaration refers to "appreciation of the top-level dialogue for the solution of issues between Japan and North Korea as well as issues of international security concern." The declaration also includes the following agreements among leaders: a reaffirmation of support for the process of inter-Korean reconciliation and cooperation; reconfirmation of the importance of engaging North Korea in the international community; and encouragement of a dialogue between the United States and North Korea.
Talks were also held concerning the issue of Iraq, during which Prime Minister Koizumi pointed out that "It is important for Iraq to submit to nuclear inspections immediately, unconditionally and without restrictions, and actually implement the United Nations Security Council resolutions," and stated that Japan would continue diplomatic efforts toward realizing Iraq's acceptance of inspections. At the discussion, the "ASEM Copenhagen Declaration on Cooperation against International Terrorism" was adopted, condemning all terrorist acts and confirming the threat of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction by terrorists while emphasizing that the fight against terrorism would be carried out in adherence to international law, placing great importance on the United Nations.
Debate conducted in the afternoon principally related to economic matters, and the leaders exchanged views on economic relations between Asia and Europe.
In the afternoon of the same day (dawn on September 24, Japan time) Prime Minister Koizumi held a summit meeting with President Jacques Chirac of the French Republic. Regarding Prime Minister Koizumi's visit to North Korea, President Chirac stated, "The visit is being praised as a success by international opinion and of course in France as well," and expressed his support. The leaders also exchanged views on the situation of Iraq.
In the evening, Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II of Denmark hosted an official dinner, with Prime Minister Koizumi also in attendance.
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