Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has arrived in Tokyo, marking the final leg of his significant diplomatic tour across east Asia. The Labour leader touched down in the Japanese capital ahead of a crucial meeting with the country's newly appointed Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi.
Strategic Discussions on Security and Commerce
Speaking to journalists during his flight from Shanghai to Tokyo, Sir Keir outlined his ambitious agenda for the talks. He expressed particular enthusiasm for engaging with Ms Takaichi on a range of pressing international matters.
"I am very much looking forward to discussing both defence and security issues, alongside trade and the economy," the Prime Minister stated. He emphasised the profound importance of the UK's relationship with Japan, describing the nation as a "really important" ally within both the G7 and G20 forums.
A Vital Economic Partnership
Sir Keir highlighted the substantial economic bonds between the two nations, noting Japan's position as the United Kingdom's largest investor outside of Europe and the United States.
"There are approximately 1,000 Japanese businesses operating in the UK, supporting an estimated 150,000 jobs," he remarked, underscoring the depth of the commercial relationship that will form a central part of their discussions.
Cooperation on Global Security
The Prime Minister also praised Ms Takaichi's swift foreign policy actions since taking office in October of the previous year. He noted her government's prompt decision to join the international "coalition of the willing", a peacekeeping initiative for Ukraine spearheaded by Britain and France.
This alignment on security matters is expected to be a key topic during their scheduled working dinner at the Japanese leader's official residence, the Kantei, on Saturday evening.
Wrapping Up a Pivotal Regional Tour
Sir Keir's stop in Japan concludes a intensive four-day visit to China, where he led efforts to recalibrate the UK's diplomatic and economic relationship with Beijing. Accompanied by a delegation exceeding fifty business and cultural leaders, the trip yielded several tangible outcomes.
Notable achievements from the China leg include securing a reduction in tariffs on Scotch whisky exports and an agreement to introduce visa-free travel to China for British citizens. Furthermore, following a direct meeting between Sir Keir and Chinese President Xi Jinping, Beijing consented to lift sanctions previously imposed on British parliamentarians.
This final engagement in Tokyo represents a strategic bookend to a tour designed to strengthen Britain's ties with two of Asia's most influential powers, focusing on both economic prosperity and shared security challenges.
