OTTAWA: Japanese Prime Minister KISHIDA Fumio and his Canadian counterpart, Justin Trudeau, on Thursday affirmed that their countries will continue to work closely together in dealing with China.

“The two leaders strongly opposed unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force in the East and South China Seas,” and confirmed their continued “close coordination in addressing various issues related to China,” the Japanese Foreign Ministry said in a statement issued after the Japan-Canada summit in Ottawa.

In its first Indo-Pacific strategy, compiled in November last year, Canada said that “China is an increasingly disruptive global power.”

In the day’s meeting, Kishida expressed his hope for cooperation with Canada to realize a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

“I welcome Canada’s increasing involvement in the region as a Pacific nation,” Kishida said at a joint press conference with Trudeau after their meeting.

Kishida also sought support from Trudeau for the success of the summit of the Group of Seven major countries to be held in the western Japan city of Hiroshima in May, and Trudeau expressed his “full support.”

The two leaders affirmed a policy of continuing sanctions against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, while providing support to Ukraine.

They agreed on the importance of unity among the G-7 countries in efforts to ensure energy and food security.

Kishida and Trudeau also had discussions on their countries’ relations. They reaffirmed cooperation over a liquefied natural gas development project in Canada.

JIJI Press