Japan and Canada Elevate Ties to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

Tokyo, Japan – March 6, 2026 – Japan and Canada today formalized a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” signaling a deepening of cooperation across security, economic, and cultural domains. The agreement was reached during a summit meeting between Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaiichi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in Tokyo.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

The decision to elevate the relationship reflects the expanding cooperative ties between the two nations, according to a joint statement released following the meeting Prime Minister’s Office of Japan. Prime Minister Takaiichi emphasized Canada’s role as a key partner sharing fundamental values like freedom, democracy, and the rule of law, and its importance in promoting a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) Prime Minister’s Office of Japan.

Key Areas of Cooperation

• Security: Both leaders agreed to strengthen security cooperation, including expanding joint exercises and advancing legal infrastructure such as the Agreement on the Security of Information and the Agreement concerning the Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. A Cyber Policy Dialogue will be established to foster collaboration in cybersecurity Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.
• Economic Ties: Discussions focused on energy cooperation, including LNG Canada’s production for Asia and the construction of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in Ontario. A new Economic Security Dialogue will be launched, with initiatives planned for battery supply chains, AI, and quantum technology Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.
• Supply Chain Resilience: The leaders concurred on the need to strengthen cooperation on critical minerals and enhance supply chain resilience amid growing international concerns over export restrictions Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.
• Regional and International Affairs: Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to realizing a Free and Open Indo-Pacific and pledged continued close collaboration on regional issues, including policies toward China and North Korea Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

Joint Statement and Future Outlook

The signing of the Japan-Canada Joint Statement marks the first summit document comprehensively outlining the strategic direction for both countries Prime Minister’s Office of Japan. Looking ahead to the 2028 centennial of diplomatic relations, both leaders expressed a commitment to expanding people-to-people exchanges and strengthening the long-term partnership Prime Minister’s Office of Japan.

G7 Coordination

The two leaders similarly confirmed continued close coordination at the G7, including collaboration on regional situations and policies Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.