Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and her New Zealand counterpart, Christopher Luxon, on Wednesday reaffirmed their countries¡¯ close cooperation in efforts to help de-escalate tensions in the Middle East, including ensuring safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
During their 15-minute phone conversation, the two leaders agreed that ensuring stable supplies of energy and essential materials is important.
Takaichi briefed Luxon on the revisions to the operational guidelines for Japan¡¯s three principles on defense equipment transfers. Implemented on Tuesday, the changes allow the country to export lethal equipment such as fighter jets and destroyers. Luxon welcomed Takaichi¡¯s briefing.
The two leaders also agreed to deepen bilateral relations in security and other areas, including cooperation for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
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