GCC, Japan adopt joint action plan in Kuwait, push for free trade pact
text_fields
Kuwait hosted the 165th GCC Ministerial Meeting and the second GCC-Japan Strategic Dialogue on Monday, with discussions centering on Gulf unity and deepening cooperation with Japan.
Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya praised the strength of Gulf solidarity during the talks. GCC Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi said the agenda included political, security, economic and humanitarian issues.
The GCC strongly condemned Zionist actions in Gaza. Officials urged Japan to join the international coalition recognizing Palestine. Al-Budaiwi noted that Tokyo gave a positive response to the call.
The meetings approved a Joint Action Plan for 2024–2028. The plan covers cooperation in energy, trade, investment, culture and academic exchange. Ministers also called for expediting negotiations on a GCC-Japan free trade agreement.
Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya highlighted his country’s reliance on the Gulf for over 90 percent of its crude oil imports. He praised Gulf states for their role in maintaining global energy stability.
Iwaya stressed Japan’s commitment to working with the GCC on clean energy, hydrogen and ammonia projects. He also pointed to future cooperation in technology, education, culture, agriculture and regional development.
Japan welcomed GCC participation in Expo Osaka 2025. Iwaya said that Gulf engagement is important for bilateral ties and for Japan’s broader partnerships, including its outreach in Africa.
