During the joint press conference, Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, Chinese counterpart Wang Yi and South Korea’s Cho Tae-yul agreed to improve trust and address long-term issues. They committed to addressing concerns that require trilateral efforts, ensuring broader support for enhanced collaboration in East Asia.
Iwaya emphasized threats posed by North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and cooperation with Russia, calling for progress in denuclearization under UN Security Council regulations. He reiterated Japan’s condemnation of Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, stating that forceful status quo changes have no place globally.
Wang Yi highlighted economic cooperation proposing the resumption of trilateral trade discussion and expanding the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). He described technology and climate exchanges as crucial drivers of East Asian growth.
Saturday’s meeting set the stage for a trilateral leaders summit, signaling Japan’s diplomatic strides despite historical disputes with its neighbors. Iwaya stressed Japan’s commitment to hosting the summit later this year to advance dialogue.
Japan and China also resumed high-level economic talks focusing on strategic collaboration across multiple sectors, including health, transportation, and the environment. Wang emphasized countering unilateralism, protectionism, and politicized science, indirectly referencing global shifts in policy.
Discussions included China’s seafood ban following Japan’s release of treated radioactive wastewater from Fukushima. Iwaya noted progress towards lifting the ban and improving ties despite territorial and historical disputes.
Japan, China, and South Korea pledged to maintain open communication, jointly address North Korea’s denuclearization, and enhance relations with the US. These efforts highlight unity’s importance during growing global political and economic challenges.
