JapanGov Weekly

[Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan] [Friday, Jul 15, 2016]

On July 14, Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, held meetings at the Mongolian Government Palace during his visit to Mongolia to attend the ASEM Summit Meeting with Mr. Tsakhia Elbegdorj, President of Mongolia, Mr. Jargaltulga Erdenebat, Prime Minister of Mongolia, and Mr. MiyeegomboEnkhbold, Chairman of the State Great Hural of Mongolia. The overview from these meetings is as follows.

1 Schedule

July 14 (Friday) Afternoon
Summit meeting with President Elbegdorj
Joint press conference with President Elbegdorj
Summit meeting with Prime Minister Erdenebat
Meeting with State Great Hural Chairman Enkhbold

July 14 (Friday) Evening
Dinner reception hosted by President Elbegdorj

2 Summit meeting with President Elbegdorj (Approximately 25 minutes from 5:10 p.m.)

(1) In his opening remarks, President Elbegdorj welcomed Prime Minister Abe on his third visit to Mongolia and offered his congratulations on the victory in the Upper House election. President Elbegdorj also expressed his appreciation for Prime Minister Abe's support for development in the Japan-Mongolia relationship. Prime Minister Abe commented that Japan is placing emphasis on its relationship with Mongolia and referenced his third visit to Mongolia and ninth meeting with the President as a reflection of this. Prime Minister Abe made the following points.

1. Japan welcomes the effectuation of the Japan-Mongolia Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) and hopes to further strengthen ties ahead of the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year.
2. This ASEM Summit Meeting is an important event marking the 20th anniversary of ASEM and offers a valuable opportunity to reconfirm the partnership between Asia and Europe under President Elbegdorj's leadership. Japan also hopes that this meeting will issue a clear statement that terrorism is absolutely unacceptable in light of the terrorist incident that took place in Bangladesh.

(2) In response, President Elbegdorj made the following comments.

1. Mongolia strongly condemns all types of terrorism and expressed his condolences to the victims of the terrorist attack in Bangladesh.
2.The Strategic Partnership's action plan has been proceeding smoothly under the initiative of Prime Minister Abe. Mongolia hopes to reach an agreement on the next-stage action plan and promote cooperation in railways, coal, and industrial cluster formation.
3. The Japan-Mongolia EPA will contribute significantly to the expansion of the bilateral relationship. A treaty on preventing double taxation is also important in order to expand the economic relationship between the two countries.
4. Mongolia hopes to hold a wide range of events to commemorate the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.
5. Japan's ODA has contributed to the development of Mongolia and is still needed. Mongolia also intends to promote closer cooperation in the international arena, strengthen collaboration at the United Nations, and promote Japan-US-Mongolia trilateral dialogue.
6. Mongolia hopes to move forward with the Ulaanbaatar Dialogue aimed at stabilizing Northeast Asia and the Korean Peninsula.

(3) In response, Prime Minister Abe made the following comments.

1. Japan and Mongolia are important regional partners that share fundamental values. Japan intends to support autonomous developments by Mongolia as much as possible. To revitalize its economy, Mongolia needs to steadily implement further economic reforms, while also taking into account recommendations from the IMF and other international organizations, and increase the level of trust it receives from the international community.
2. Japan is putting emphasis on defense and security cooperation. It intends to dispatch a defense attaché in early 2017 and further strengthen the relationship, including capacity-building assistance, which has taken place for three years.
3. Japan appreciates Mongolia's support for United Nations Security Council reforms and hopes to continue close collaboration.
4. Japan welcomed the First Japan-US-Mongolia Working-Level Dialogue held in September 2015 and hopes to hold future discussions in light of the importance of multilateral strategic dialogue.
5. North Korea's ballistic missile launch in June demonstrated progress in it's nuclear missile developments and moved the North Korean security threat to a new stage. It is important to bolster pressure to alter North Korea's behavior through strict implementation of Security Council resolutions and diplomatic efforts. Japan intends to cooperate with efforts that lead to the denuclearization of North Korea. It also appreciates Mongolia's cooperation and understanding in regard to the abductions issue.

(4) Additionally, President Elbegdorj commented that Mongolia plans to maintain and develop its cooperative relationship with Japan following the inauguration of a new administration, and Prime Minister Abe commented that Japan wants to closely collaborate with the Government of Mongolia's new administration in order to advance the relationship between the two countries.

3 Summit meeting with Prime Minister Erdenebat (Approximately 30 minutes from 5:55 p.m.)

(1) Prime Minister Abe congratulated Prime Minister Erdenebat on his new position and commented that Japan is placing emphasis on its relationship with Mongolia and referenced his third visit to Mongolia as a reflection of this. Prime Minister Abe stated that Japan hopes to closely collaborate and cooperate with Mongolia to develop the relationship between the two countries and achieve regional stability and prosperity and made the following points.

1. Japan hopes that Prime Minister Erdenebat will visit Japan as soon as possible in light of the commemoration of the 45th anniversary of the starting of diplomatic relations next year. It intends to formulate a new action plan and deepen the mutually beneficial relationship at that time.
2. Japan plans to dispatch a defense attach? early next year and further strengthen the relationship, including capacity-building assistance for three years that has been proceeding smoothly.
3. Japan welcomes the effectuation of the Japan-Mongolia EPA and intends to steadily implement the agreement and promote more comprehensive and deeper economic ties between the two countries.
4. Japan intends to support autonomous developments by Mongolia as much as possible. To revitalize its economy, Mongolia needs to steadily implement further economic reforms, while also taking into account recommendations from the IMF and other international entities, and increase the level of trust it receives from the international community.
5. Japan intends to promote cooperation in the areas of clean coal technology, the environment, and human resource training.

(2) In response, Prime Minister Erdenebat offered his congratulations on the victory in the Upper House election and made the following points.

1. Prime Minister Erdenebat expressed his gratitude for the invitation to visit Japan and plans to coordinate the schedule through diplomatic channels.
2. Mongolia continues to focus on its relationship with Japan under the new administration and hopes to further advance the Strategic Partnership. It aims to formulate and reach agreement on a new medium-term action plan.
3. Mongolia welcomes the effectuation of the Japan-Mongolia EPA, and its implementation is a core task for the administration. It intends to revive the Mongolian economy while receiving advice from the IMF and other international entities.
4. Mongolia appreciates past cooperation from Japan in the areas of clean coal technology, the environment, and human resource training and plans to continue the cooperative relationship. Mongolia also hopes to obtain cooperation in the agricultural field from the standpoint of diversifying its industry.

4 Meeting with State Great Hural Chairman Enkhbold (Approximately 20 minutes from 6:40 p.m.)

(1) Prime Minister Abe offered his congratulations to Chairman Enkhbold on assuming the position, cited his third visit as a reflection of Japan's emphasis on Mongolia and expressed an interest in working together closely towards the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year. Prime Minister Abe also made the following comments.

1. Japan and Mongolia are vital regional partners that share fundamental values. I hope to significantly advance relations between the two counties by working with Chairman Enkhbold who has close ties with Japan.
2. Japan welcomes the effectuation of the Japan-Mongolia EPA. It intends to review ways of further strengthening the relationship, including formulation of a new action plan to bolster the Strategic Partnership with Mongolia's new administration.
3. Japan will provide a cordial welcome if Chairman Enkhbold has an opportunity to visit Japan in order to support his continued leadership in developing interaction among congressional bodies.

(2) In response, Chairman Enkhbold offered his congratulations on the victory in the Upper House election and expressed gratitude for the congratulations regarding his new position. Chairman Enkhbold also noted a desire to further advance the Strategic Partnership with Japan and voiced his appreciation for the assistance and support from the Japanese government and people . He spoke positively about the intensive progress being made in the interaction between the congressional bodies of the two countries and the conclusion of the Japan-Mongolia EPA. Chairman Enkhbold stated Mongolia’s interest in formulating a new medium-term action plan through discussions with Japan and further developments in cooperation at the international and regional level.

Photograph of the Prime Minister shaking hands with the President of Mongolia Photograph of the welcome ceremony in Chinggis Square Photograph of the Prime Minister shaking hands with the Prime Minister of Mongolia Photograph of the Prime Minister meeting with the Prime Minister of Mongolia Photograph of the Prime Minister shaking hands with the Chairman of the State Great Hural of Mongolia Photograph of the Prime Minister meeting with the Chairman of the State Great Hural of Mongolia

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan [Saturday, Jul 16, 2016]

Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, attended the 11th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM 11) Summit Meeting, which was held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia on Friday, July 15 and Saturday, July 16. The representatives of 51 countries and two organizations attended the meeting. The overview is as follows.

1. Overview

(1) Plenary Session One: “Two Decades of Partnership: Taking Stock and Looking Ahead” (July 15)

Prime Minister Abe made remarks at Session One as the lead speaker. At the beginning, he offered his condolences over the terrorist attack in Nice as well as resolutely condemned the terrorist attack in Bangladesh that claimed the lives of Japanese nationals, and emphasized that Asia and Europe should jointly issue a clear message on confronting terrorism. In addition, with regard to the global economy facing uncertain circumstances, Prime Minister Abe referred to a response to the situation by mobilizing all policy tools, consisting of monetary policy, fiscal policy and structural reform, on the basis of the agreement (PDF: http://www.mofa.go.jp/files/000160266.pdf) reached at the G7 Ise-shima Summit Meeting in May.

The other leaders of the ASEM members referred to the challenges that the international community faces in areas such as terrorism, refugees, climate change, the United Kingdom’s decision to leave the European Union, and the global economy, and discussed strengthening cooperation and dialogue among the ASEM members, including in relation to economic relations, digital networks, politics, and security.

At the end of the plenary session the President of Mongolia read an independent statement on international terrorism (PDF: http://www.mofa.go.jp/files/000174272.pdf) statement on international terrorism, and the statement was issued.

(2) Retreat Session: “Enhancing the Three Pillars of ASEM” (July 16)

At the Retreat Session Prime Minister Abe spoke second and discussed Japan’s position on North Korea and the South China Sea, as challenges that are related to regional peace and prosperity.

In addition, the ASEM leaders cited the importance of counterterrorism measures, the rule of law, the rules-based international order and the peaceful resolution of disputes; voiced concerns about maritime security and the South China Sea including the arbitration award between the Philippines and China, as well as North Korea’s nuclear tests and human rights situation; and expressed frank views on issues such as the United Kingdom’s decision to leave the EU, refugees and migrants and the situation in Turkey.

At the end of the Retreat Session a Chair’s Statement (PDF: http://www.mofa.go.jp/files/000174270.pdf) and the Ulaanbaatar Declaration (PDF: http://www.mofa.go.jp/files/000174267.pdf) were compiled, and Mr. Donald Tusk, President of the European Council, as the next ASEM Summit Meeting Chair, announced that the EU will hold the next Summit Meeting in the latter half of 2018.

(3) Bilateral meetings: Prime Minister Abe held meetings with the leaders and representatives of participating countries

While in Ulaanbaatar, Prime Minister Abe held bilateral meetings with the leaders of Mongolia, Germany, Bangladesh, China, the EU, Viet Nam, and Cambodia, and also received a courtesy call from the Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, and frank exchanges of views took place.

2. Outcomes

Based on the results of Japan’s diplomacy that takes a panoramic perspective of the world map, Prime Minister Abe led exchanges of views among the ASEM leaders on terrorism, the global economy and regional and international affairs. In particular, Prime Minister Abe emphasized that Asia and Europe should cooperate to strengthen the fight against terrorism as an issue facing the international community as a whole in light of the terrorist attack in Nice just prior to the opening of the Summit Meeting, and this led to the issuance of an independent statement on this issue. In addition to various bilateral meetings, Prime Minster Abe met with many leaders and others outside the venue, which served to deepen cooperation with other countries.

Photograph of the leaders observing a moment of silence for the victims of the incident in Nice, France, during the special program for the Mongolian Nomadic Naadam festival

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan [Saturday, Jul 16, 2016]

On Friday, July 15, commencing at 3:35 p.m. (local time) for approximately 25 minutes, Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Donald Tusk, President of the European Council, and H.E. Mr. Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the European Commission during his visit to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to attend the 11th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM 11) Summit Meeting,. The overview of the meeting is as follows.

1. Opening remarks

Prime Minister Abe resolutely condemned the recent heinous terrorist attack in Nice: He expressed the pleasure of meeting the EU leaders again following the G7 Ise-Shima Summit, and expressed his hope that Japan and the European Union (EU) will drive the global economy based on the agreement reached at the G7 Summit to implement all available policies.

The EU leaders expressed their gratitude for Prime Minister Abe’s condolences over the terrorist attack in Nice and conveyed their sympathy over the terrorist attack in Dhaka. On its basis, the two sides shared the view that Japan and the EU will cooperate in tackling terrorism.

2. The United Kingdom’s decision to leave the EU

Prime Minister Abe asked that the EU and the United Kingdom coordinate to clarify the prospect for their future negotiations in order to dispel the sense of uncertainty surrounding the United Kingdom’s decision to leave the EU and enhance predictability . The EU side explained that nothing will come to a halt legally as a result of the process of the United Kingdom leaving the EU, that this development will not change the Japan-EU relationship in any way, and that the EU will continue to be a trusted partner. The EU side also pointed out that all EU laws and agreements concluded by the EU with third countries will apply to the United Kingdom until the United Kingdom leaves the EU.

3. Japan-EU EPA

Prime Minister Abe explained that Japan will continue to make the utmost effort to reach agreement in principle as soon as possible during this year on the Japan-EU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), and the EU side replied that this is an important year for the EPA and the EU is determined to conclude it by the end of the year.

4. Situation in Asia

Prime Minister Abe mentioned North Korea’s human rights situation, includingthe abductions issue, and the situation in the South China Sea, particularly with regard to the final award that was issued recently in the arbitration between the Philippines and China, explained that it will be necessary for the countries concerned to comply with the award and he intends to coordinate with the EU to encourage the rule of law and the peaceful resolution of the dispute. The EU side explained that the EU’s statement on the arbitration between the Philippines and China is currently in the last stage of finalization, and the EU hopes to pursue further cooperation with Japan as a dependable partner that faces up to the global issues.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan [Friday, Jul 15, 2016]

On Friday, July 15, commencing at around 10:50 a.m. (local time) for approximately 25 minutes, Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, who is currently in Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia) attending the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM), held a summit meeting with H.E. Dr. Angela Merkel, Federal Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany. The overview of the meeting is as follows.

1. Opening Remarks

Prime Minister Abe stated that he strongly condemns the incident that occurred in Nice today if it was an act of terrorism. He expressed his pleasure at having the opportunity to meet with Chancellor Merkel again following the Ise-Shima Summit and congratulated her on her birthday, which was coming up in two days.

Chancellor Merkel once again expressed her condolences in regard to the Dhaka terrorist incident. Both leaders agreed to work together even more closely in addressing terrorism.

2. Global Economy

The two leaders confirmed the need to deal with the risk of the United Kingdom’s vote to leave the European Union (EU) and the deceleration in emerging economies that is affecting the global economy and confirmed the importance of close collaboration in light of the agreement at the Ise-Shima Summit.

3. United Kingdom’s Vote to Leave the EU

Prime Minister Abe requested cooperation between the EU and the United Kingdom and clarification of the negotiations outlook in order to sweep uncertainty away and enhance predictability in relation to the United Kingdom’s vote to leave the EU, and Chancellor Merkel noted that this issue is a turning point for European unity and that the United Kingdom needs to clarify what it wants to accomplish.

The two leaders also agreed to cooperate in efforts to stabilize the exchange market and confirmed their intent to continue efforts to reach an agreement in principle on the Japan-EU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) as soon as possible during this year.

The two leaders agreed on further collaboration by Japan and Europe to maintain the international order based on rule of law worldwide, including in Asia.

4. Situation in Asia

Chancellor Merkel inquired Japan’s opinion regarding the final award in the arbitration proceedings as to the disputes between the Philippines and China regarding the South China Sea, announced on July 12, and Prime Minister Abe mentioned that Japan issued an official comment stating that the award is legally binding and that the parties to this case are required to comply with the award by the Arbitral Tribunal. Chancellor Merkel explained that EU member countries are currently discussing the Tribunal’s award on this case.

5. Japan-Germany Relationship

The two leaders confirmed their intent to cooperate so that the visit by H.E. Mr. Joachim Gauck, Federal President of the Federal Republic of Germany, to Japan on an invitation from Prime Minister Abe in May, provides an opportunity to further strengthen the close relationship between Japan and Germany.

They also agreed to closely coordinating for the success of CeBIT (an IT-related exhibition) to be held in March 2017, which Chancellor Merkel invited Prime Minister Abe to attend in May, as well as for the success of the G20 Summit to be held and chaired by Chancellor Merkel in July 2017.

Cabinet Secretariat [Friday, Jul 15, 2016]

On July 15, commencing at around 2:30 p.m. for approximately 30 minutes, Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, who is visiting Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia to attend the 11th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM 11) Summit Meeting, held a Japan-China Summit meeting with H.E. Dr. Li Keqiang, the Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China. The overview of the meeting is as follows.
During the meeting, the two leaders mutually expressed their condolences over the casualties caused by the terrorist attack in Dhaka and the Chinese peacekeepers who lost their lives in South Sudan.

(1) In his opening remarks, Premier Li Keqiang noted that this is his first meeting with Prime Minister Abe in eight months and that there is high media interest in whether or not the momentum of improvement in the Japan-China relationship can be sustained. Premier Li Keqiang stated that he wants Japan to comply with the four basic documents and strive to improve the relationship between Japan and China in line with the spirit of facing history and looking toward the future and that he hopes to frankly exchange views on issues of interest to both sides at this meeting.

(2) In response, Prime Minister Abe explained that he is pleased to meet Premier Li Keqiang again, and although difficult issues remain between Japan and China, he hopes to proactively address common challenges. Prime Minister Abe stated that in particular, in light of the issue of the United Kingdom deciding to leave the European Union, he hopes to cooperate in the run-up to the G20 Summit to ensure that the global economy does not face a crisis, and that he also intends to further deepen cooperation with the international community, including China, so that terrorism does not permeate Asia.

(3) In the exchange that followed, Prime Minister Abe stated the following:

1. I appreciate that Premier Li Keqiang is steering the Chinese economy, including structural reform, amid the uncertain global economic outlook. In order to bolster cooperation on the economic front, I hope to promptly hold a high-level economic dialogue between Japan and China. I hope to pursue concrete cooperation in fields such as the macro-economy, financial and monetary affairs, and energy-saving and the environment.
2. I also hope to pursue concrete cooperation on countering terrorism.
3. Together with China, Japan hopes to strongly urge North Korea to exercise self-restraint against provocative actions and comply with United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions and other measures. The UNSC should make further responses to the recent ballistic missile launches. I intend to continue coordination.
4. With the "Mutually Beneficial Relationship Based on Common Strategic Interest" as the starting point, I hope that both sides will devote efforts to proactive cooperation and exchanges, including enhancing youth exchanges.

(4) In the course of the meeting, Premier Li Keqiang made the following comments:

1. Terrorism is a global issue, and Japan and China should cooperate in response to the threat of global terrorism.
2. Market changes are occurring due to the impact of the United Kingdom's decision to leave the EU, but I hope Japan and China will firmly cooperate to ensure that a financial crisis does not return.
3. With regard to the Japan-China relationship, after securing a grasp of the general direction I hope to realize strategic mutual interests through mutual cooperation. I sincerely welcome Prime Minister Abe's visit to China for the G20 Summit in September.

(5) Prime Minister Abe frankly conveyed Japan's position on the South China Sea.

Japan has always advocated the importance of peacefully resolving disputes based on the "rule of law."
The two leaders also held a frank exchange of views regarding the East China Sea.

(6)Through the meeting, the two leaders shared views on the following points:

1. Japan and China will cooperate to ensure that terrorism does not permeate Asia. The recent attack in Nice could never be tolerated either.
2. Ahead of the G20 Summit that will be held in China in September, Japan and China will cooperate in order to rebound the world economy and achieve powerful growth.
3. Outstanding issues of concern also exist, but both Japan and China are partners that are essential to one another, and with the "Mutually Beneficial Relationship Based on Common Strategic Interest" as the starting point, Japan and China will advance its relationship.

Photograph of the Prime Minister shaking hands with the Premier of the State Council of China

[Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan] [Friday, Jul 15, 2016]

On Friday, July 15, commencing at around 11:40 am (local time) for approximately 20 minutes, Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, held a meeting with H.E. Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, during his visit to Mongolia attending the 11th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM 11) Summit Meeting. The overview of the meeting is as follows.

1. In his opening remarks Prime Minister Abe stated the following.

(1) I deeply regret the loss of many precious lives in the terrorist attack in Dhaka. Terrorism cannot be justified for any reason, and Japan strongly condemns this attack. I extend my condolences again for the Bangladeshi people who lost their lives and would like to express strong solidarity with Bangladesh.

(2) Japan hopes that the ASEM 11 Summit Meeting will send a clear message to the international community that terrorism is absolutely unacceptable.

(3) The Japanese victims were all involved in development assistance, and the loss of their lives is extremely regrettable. Japan will continue its ODA for Bangladesh to carry on the spirit of the victims. Japan requests a thorough investigation of the facts, sharing of related information, and strict punishments for the perpetrators. Japan also hopes for full-fledged cooperation to ensure the safety of Japanese people residing in and traveling to Bangladesh and to prevent recurrence.

(4) It is necessary to secure the safety of assistance-related personnel and other Japanese people in order to minimize the impact on initiatives by Japanese people and investment policies. Japan has also started a review at the Council on Safety Measures for International Cooperation Projects led by Mr. Fumio Kishida, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan. I request the kind cooperation of Prime Minister Hasina in these efforts.

(5) Today’s incident in Nice is also suspected of being an act of terrorism, and Italians were killed in the terrorist attack in Dhaka as well. I believe that it is important for Asia and Europe to work together to combat terrorism.

2. In response, Prime Minister Hasina stated the following.

(1) I was deeply shocked and saddened by the terrorist attack in Dhaka and would like to express my heartfelt condolences for the seven Japanese victims to Prime Minister Abe, the Japanese people, and the bereaved families.

(2) The Japanese victims were working to promote Bangladesh’s development and advancement, and Bangladesh is greatly saddened by this loss. Terrorists remain terrorists regardless of their country or religion. The ASEM 11 Summit Meeting should issue a strong message that terrorism is unacceptable. Prime Minister Abe’s speech at the ASEM 11 Summit Meeting delivered a strong message.

(3) I would like to express my respect for Prime Minister Abe’s bold decision immediately after this incident for Japan to continue ODA activities. I have already instructed law enforcement agencies and military forces directly under my control to take all possible measures to ensure the safety of Japanese people and other foreigners. Bangladesh is responding not only through law enforcement agencies, but also with the cooperation of the people of Bangladesh as a whole.

(4) Although the perpetrators of the terrorist attack were killed, Bangladesh is conducting an investigation into the underlying causes, including benefactors, funding, arms supply, and training, and plans to share all of the information it possesses on terrorism with Japan.

(5) Bangladesh will cooperate fully with Japan to combat terrorism and ensure the safety of the Japanese people.

Photograph of the Prime Minister shaking hands with the Prime Minister of Bangladesh