“Japan is the EU’s closest partner in the Indo-Pacific. Our partnership with Japan is not just strategic — it is based on shared principles and a common vision. It is rooted in our respect for democracy, human rights, a rules-based international order and multilateralism. In today’s complex geopolitical environment, the EU–Japan partnership stands as a model of principled, reliable cooperation”. Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, said this on the sidelines of the 30th bilateral summit in Tokyo which he attended together with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen – both were hosted by Prime Minister Ishiba. “Today’s summit is about strengthening that partnership with concrete actions — especially in three key areas: security and defence, multilateralism, and in trade and economic security. Security and defence are now at the core of the EU’s global engagement. Europe’s security is interlinked to the security in the Indo-Pacific”. Costa added: “We reaffirm our shared commitment to multilateralism”, peace and global cooperation. “This includes standing up for sovereignty and territorial integrity — in Ukraine, in the Middle East, here in the Indo-Pacific and everywhere in the world. It also includes tackling global challenges like climate change. We will work together to deliver a successful and ambitious outcome at the upcoming COP30”.