KUALA LUMPUR: Asean looks forward to working closely with Japan under the leadership of newly-elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to advance shared goals in innovation, clean energy and resilient growth.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the bloc was confident that Takaichi’s leadership would inject new energy into the long-standing Asean-Japan partnership.
“I am honoured to welcome Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to her first Asean-Japan Summit. We extend our warmest congratulations on your assumption of office.
“Asean looks forward to working closely with you to advance our shared vision of innovation, clean energy and resilient growth.
“With this spirit, I look forward to hearing the views of my esteemed colleagues as we chart a renewed and forward-looking direction for Asean–Japan cooperation,” he said in his opening remarks at the 28th Asean-Japan Summit today.
Anwar added that the potential of Asean-Japan cooperation was immense — anchored in trust, driven by shared values, and strengthened by decades of partnership.
Takaichi assumed office on Tuesday, becoming Japan’s first female prime minister.
This marks her maiden visit to Kuala Lumpur since taking office.
During her visit, Takaichi is expected to meet Malaysian leaders to explore ways to enhance collaboration in maritime security, economic resilience, green transition and humanitarian affairs under the Asean framework.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
