French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Japan on Tuesday for a visit initially aimed at strengthening cooperation in nuclear energy and space innovation, but the focus has shifted to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Macron landed in Tokyo shortly before 5:30 pm local time (0830 GMT) amid rainy and windy conditions. He met with several cultural figures, including a renowned kimono painter, ahead of talks with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Wednesday.
“The crisis in the Middle East will be at the heart of discussions,” the Elysee Palace said, noting that the leaders will explore “how we can try to find common solutions.” Macron’s trip will also include a visit to South Korea.
Japan depends on the Middle East for 95 percent of its oil imports and has drawn from strategic reserves to manage rising fuel costs since the outbreak of the war.
Iran has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for a fifth of global crude and gas shipments, following strikes by the United States and Israel that began on February 28.
On Monday, G7 economy and finance ministers, including representatives from France and Japan, said they were ready to take “all necessary measures” to maintain energy market stability amid the conflict.
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Wednesday will mark Macron’s first full formal meeting with Takaichi, though the two met previously at the G20 summit in November.
The talks are expected to focus on stabilizing tensions in Iran, security cooperation, and space sector partnerships. A roadmap on nuclear power in Japan is also planned to be signed.
Macron’s visit, his fourth to Japan, comes as tensions between Tokyo and Beijing have risen after Takaichi suggested in November that Japan might intervene militarily if China attempts to take Taiwan. Macron visited China in December.
He and his wife Brigitte are scheduled to have lunch with Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako on Thursday, though rain could affect viewing of Japan’s cherry blossoms.
Macron will stay in Japan until April 2 before traveling to South Korea at the invitation of President Lee Jae Myung, becoming the first European leader to make a state visit since the start of the current administration.