On 19 May, during his working visit to Tokyo, President Edgars Rinkēvičs was received in audience by His Majesty Emperor Naruhito of Japan.
President Rinkēvičs also held a meeting with the Prime Minister of Japan, Shigeru Ishiba. The discussions focused on the bilateral cooperation between Latvia and Japan, particularly in the fields of politics, security, and defence, as well as trade and economic security.
“Latvia and Japan share a long history of friendship dating back to the early days of Latvian statehood. Japan is one of our closest partners in the Indo-Pacific region. At a time when security in Europe and the Indo-Pacific is increasingly interconnected, it is more important than ever to strengthen ties with trusted, like-minded partners. Japan is a strategically important partner for Latvia. I hope this visit will serve as a strong incentive to further develop our bilateral relations in areas such as security and defence, trade and investment, cooperation within international organisations, as well as in healthcare, innovation, technology and digital development. Particularly pleasing is the recently concluded European Union–Japan security and defence partnership, which provides additional opportunities for cooperation,” said President Rinkēvičs at the meeting. The President of Latvia invited the Prime Minister of Japan to visit Latvia.
During the visit, the President also held a meeting with Hirofumi Nakasone, Chair of the Japan–Latvia Parliamentary Friendship Group, and members of the group.
During the meetings with Japanese officials, President of Latvia emphasised that the friendship between Latvia and Japan is underpinned by active political dialogue and dynamic cultural cooperation. “Our nations share a deep admiration for nature — from Japan’s cherry blossoms to Latvia’s forests and meadows. Nature and sustainability are also among the central themes of EXPO 2025 in Osaka. The Baltic Pavilion in Osaka is an opportunity to bring together our people and businesses. It is a chance to showcase Latvia’s achievements and to foster and deepen cooperation. Japan is one of Latvia’s most significant trade and investment partners in the Indo-Pacific region,” President Rinkēvičs highlighted.
E. Rinkēvičs expressed appreciation for Japan’s principled stance in international affairs, particularly its steadfast commitment to supporting peace, stability, and international law. Japan’s support for Ukraine in the face of brutal aggression reflects the moral clarity and determination that the country continues to embody. “The security of Europe and the Indo-Pacific region is interconnected. Both regions face similar challenges. Latvia is open to cooperation with Japan in advancing peace, security, and sustainable development,” said the President of Latvia.
During his working visit, the President of Latvia also participated in the opening of the Latvia–Japan Business Forum in Tokyo and met with representatives of the Japan Business Federation (Keidanren).
