Strengthening of Strategic Alliance between EU and Japan
The 30th EU-Japan Summit, held in Tokyo on July 23, 2025, marked a significant milestone in the close partnership between the European Union (EU) and Japan. The summit, attended by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Council President António Costa, and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, reaffirmed the commitment of both parties to collaborate on various fronts.
One of the key outcomes of the summit was the launch of the new competitiveness alliance. This alliance, which builds upon the groundwork laid at the 29th EU-Japan Summit in Brussels in 2023, is based on three strategic pillars: strengthening bilateral trade, focusing on economic security, and intensifying cooperation in innovation, green transition, and digitalization.
The "Green Alliance" established in 2021 as part of the cooperation in the new alliance, aims to promote climate protection, circular economy, and energy transition. The new alliance will also focus on reliable supply chains for critical raw materials, semiconductors, and batteries. The security partnership between the EU and Japan will be directed towards maritime security, cybersecurity, and hybrid threats.
The EU and Japan have also announced strengthened cooperation in the field of security and defense. The Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the EU and Japan, which has already shown significant results, will be further utilized in the new alliance. Both parties see potential for further expansion, particularly in areas such as public procurement and health and plant protection standards.
The "Digital Partnership" was agreed in 2022 as part of the cooperation in the new alliance. This partnership aims to promote digital innovation and cooperation between the two regions.
The EU is Japan's third-largest trading partner worldwide, and the value of trade in goods and services between the EU and Japan was over 190 billion euros in 2024. Exports of services grew by about 42% during the same period. Between 2018 and 2024, bilateral trade in goods between the EU and Japan increased by about 20%.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that Europe and Japan are close and trustworthy friends. She emphasized the importance of the partnership, particularly in response to the changing global situation.
António Costa, who holds the position of President of the Council of the European Union in the new competition alliance between the EU and Japan in 2025, reiterated the commitment of the EU to deepening and broadening its partnership with Japan.
The new alliances and partnerships announced at the 30th EU-Japan Summit are a testament to the strong and enduring relationship between the EU and Japan, and a commitment to working together towards a more sustainable, secure, and prosperous future.
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