Arab News Japan

Japanese Prime Minister KISHIDA Fumio conveyed his congratulations to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on his re-election in the recent presidential election held on May 28, according to an official statement released by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

On May 29, following the presidential election held on May 28, PM KISHIDA issued a letter of congratulations to H.E. Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, President of the Republic of #Türkiye, on his re-election.https://t.co/unMKHp1PJk

— MOFA of Japan (@MofaJapan_en) May 29, 2023

Following the announcement of the election results, Prime Minister Kishida issued a letter of congratulations to President Erdogan, acknowledging the significance of his victory in extending his two-decade rule. The message emphasized the “historically strong ties” between Japan and Turkey and expressed that that “Japan hopes to work with Turkey for the next 100 years.”

As 2024 marks the centennial anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Turkey, Prime Minister Kishida highlighted the enduring bond between the two nations. The message conveyed Japan’s desire to further strengthen bilateral relations and collaborate on resolving various regional and global challenges, including the ongoing situation in Ukraine, specifically citing Russia’s invasion.

Separately, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno affirmed the Japanese government’s congratulations to President Erdogan during a press conference. Matsuno reiterated Japan’s commitment to enhancing bilateral relations with Turkey, recognizing it as a strategic partner.

“We will continue making efforts to further strengthen bilateral relations with Turkey, a strategic partner of Japan,” Matsuno said. He also highlighted Japan’s readiness to reinforce cooperation with Turkey for regional peace and stability, particularly in the context of the situation in Ukraine.

The congratulatory message from Prime Minister Kishida underscores the deep diplomatic ties between Japan and Turkey, which have witnessed continuous growth over the years. Both countries actively collaborate on a wide range of regional and international issues. Notably, economic cooperation has been a cornerstone of their relationship, thanks in part to the implementation of the Japan-Turkey Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).

The Japanese government’s commitment to strengthening ties with Turkey reflects its dedication to fostering regional peace and stability, while the message from Prime Minister Kishida signals a continued trajectory of close collaboration and mutual support between the wo countries.