Japan and Italy Forge “Special Strategic” Partnership in Tokyo

Japan and Italy moved to strengthen their partnership on Friday as Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi hosted Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Tokyo, agreeing to expand collaboration on economic security and resilient supply chains amid growing global uncertainty.

Focus on Economic Security and Critical Minerals

Speaking at a joint press conference after the talks, Takaichi said the two governments had reached a consensus to boost cooperation in areas central to economic security, including the supply chains of critical minerals. The agreement reflects shared concerns among advanced economies about strategic dependencies and global market volatility.

Kyodo News reported that the discussions highlighted the importance of closer coordination between the two Group of Seven members as competition over resources intensifies worldwide.

Partnership Upgraded

Takaichi announced that Japan and Italy had upgraded their existing “strategic” partnership to a “special strategic” partnership, broadening cooperation across multiple fields such as security, culture and economic affairs.

The move signals a step-change in bilateral relations as both countries seek reliable partners beyond their immediate regions.

First European Leader Hosted by Takaichi

Meloni’s visit marked Takaichi’s first meeting with a European leader in Japan since assuming office in October. The talks coincided with the 160th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy, underscoring the symbolic weight of the visit.

Relations between the two nations have steadily expanded over the decades, with Japan now Italy’s third-largest trading partner in Asia. Bilateral trade currently stands at approximately $11.6 billion.

Meloni’s Social Media Message

Meloni shared a photo of the meeting on social media, writing in Italian, “Due Nazioni lontane, ma sempre più vicine. Amicizia e sintonia con,” which translates as, “Two nations far apart, yet increasingly close. Friendship and harmony with.”