This report covers the meeting held by Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Muto with German Federal Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and accompanying German business executives on August 18.
Meeting Overview and Participants
Minister Muto held talks with German Federal Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and accompanying German business executives. This meeting was conducted with the aim of deepening economic relations between Japan and Germany and strengthening their strategic partnership, featuring comprehensive discussions on economic security cooperation and the development of bilateral economic relations.
Cooperation Confirmation in Economic Security
The meeting focused extensively on economic security measures including supply chain resilience. Both countries confirmed their commitment to jointly address economic security challenges such as ensuring stable supply of critical materials and strategic technologies, diversifying and strengthening supply chains, and reducing excessive dependency risks on third countries. Particular emphasis was placed on building cooperative frameworks in sectors directly linked to both countries' industrial competitiveness, including semiconductors, rare earth elements, and energy-related technologies.
Importance of Rules-Based Economic Order
Both ministers shared recognition of the importance of maintaining and developing a free and fair trading system and a rules-based economic order. They exchanged views on efforts to improve the credibility of the international economic system, including promoting WTO reform, strengthening the multilateral trading system, and addressing unfair trade practices. These initiatives were positioned as essential elements for creating an environment where companies from both countries can operate under fair competitive conditions.
Prospects for Future Bilateral Cooperation
The meeting broadly examined possibilities for future bilateral cooperation. Enhanced collaboration was discussed in areas where both countries have competitive advantages, including digital technology, green technology, advanced manufacturing, and startup support. With the participation of German business executives, concrete exchanges were also held on promoting private-sector cooperation and improving the investment environment, confirming the importance of public-private integrated efforts.
The article demonstrates that Japan and Germany are important partners in economic security and maintaining international economic order, and will continue close collaboration going forward.