REASON FOR THE VISIT

* Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is visiting Australia for the first time as leader since she won a landslide election in 2025
* Anthony Albanese welcomed her to Parliament House in Canberra

* This year marks the 50th anniversary of a key treaty inked between the two nations, setting up co-operation and friendly relations

* Australia and Japan are among the nations experiencing energy shocks caused by the US-led war on Iran as a key oil passageway remains effectively closed

OUTCOMES FROM THE TRIP

* Australia and Japan have signed a number of agreements across economic security, defence, critical minerals and energy

* The main agreement, the joint declaration on economic security, is aimed at strengthening supply chains for key goods such as energy products, food and critical minerals

* It notes both countries have to consult each other on economic security contingencies and consider measures to mitigate risks

* Canberra and Tokyo have pledged to ensure the flow of fuel and gas between the two countries

* Australia provides one third of Japan’s energy supply and is the nation’s largest market for liquified natural gas
* Japan is an important supplier of refined petroleum and diesel to Australia

WHAT’S BEEN SAID

“I’m very pleased that we’re elevating our special strategic partnership across the breadth of our relationship, bringing peace, stability, and security to the region” – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

“As the international situation becomes increasingly severe and complex, I have long advocated for the importance of co-operation among like-minded countries. Australia is a top runner in such co-operation” – Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi

Tess Ikonomou
(Australian Associated Press)