Cyprus and Japan seek closer cooperation in shipping, business, technology and education

Tokyo, Japan. Cyprus and Japan are moving to deepen cooperation in shipping, business, technology and higher education following talks on Monday between Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos and his Japanese counterpart, Toshimitsu Motegi.

Strengthening bilateral relations

Kombos said his working visit opened a “new chapter” in Cyprus-Japan relations and marked the first visit to Japan by a Cypriot foreign minister in eight years.

He described the meeting with Motegi as excellent, saying both sides had reaffirmed their shared objective of strengthening the partnership.

The discussions covered bilateral relations, with particular emphasis on stronger economic ties, maritime connectivity, shipping and higher education. The ministers also addressed the Indo-Pacific strategy and the next steps in EU-Japan relations.

Maritime cooperation and international law

The ministers discussed key regional and international developments and reaffirmed their countries’ commitment to international law.

According to the Japanese ministry, Motegi described Cyprus as an important partner that shares fundamental values with Japan and emphasised their common interests as maritime nations.

The Japanese side highlighted the importance of maintaining and strengthening the international maritime order. The talks also covered freedom of navigation and Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific approach.

Economic, technology and research ties

Economic relations featured prominently, with Motegi referring to Cyprus’ development in finance, information technology and shipping, as well as its role as an international business centre in the Mediterranean.

The Japanese side also expressed interest in expanding economic and commercial exchanges between the two countries.

Science, technology and industrial cooperation formed part of the discussions, including prospects for cooperation in shipbuilding and research.