Overview
- Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told New Zealand’s Christopher Luxon that Japan is reviewing its rules that limit when it can transfer defense equipment and technology.
- Luxon welcomed the briefing, and both leaders agreed to deepen security cooperation and work toward a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.
- The two leaders said they would keep close contact to support de-escalation in the Middle East, including safe passage for ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
- They also stressed the need for steady supplies of energy and essential goods across the Asia-Pacific as tensions threaten key sea lanes.
- In a separate call with Qatar’s Amir, Japan pressed for a maintained ceasefire and regional stability, agreed to bolster energy cooperation, and noted Qatar’s help protecting Japanese nationals.