Japan's Prime Minister to Discuss Strait of Hormuz Access and Defense Ties During Europe Trip

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi wrote in the Financial Times on Friday that Japan will increase international cooperation to keep the Strait of Hormuz open for navigation and to protect supply chains for energy and other critical goods. Takaichi described the strait as “an international public good” and said Japan will “continue to make persistent diplomatic efforts” toward stabilizing the situation there.

She added that the strait’s de facto closure has reminded nations of the need to strengthen their own agency and resilience within the global order.

’” Takaichi is scheduled to depart Saturday for visits to Britain, Italy and France that will run through Thursday. France is hosting this year’s Group of Seven summit. She noted ongoing defense cooperation with Britain and Italy on a next-generation fighter jet project and referenced Japan’s April revision of its three principles governing overseas transfers of defense equipment.