Japan and France Graduate from Trade to Technological Partnership During Macron’s Visit
Visit
From 31 March to 2 April 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron was on a state visit to Japan. The two countries exchanged views on the current crisis in the Middle East, explored the deepening of security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, and inked a number of agreements in various fields.
Middle East
Both President Emmanuel Macron and PM Sanae Takachi called for a ceasefire and the prompt reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Japan relies heavily on hydrocarbons from the Middle East and is thus very concerned.
Indo-Pacific
Japan and France agree to conduct more joint military exercises in the Indo-Pacific. Both sides see China’s rise with some concern, and Japan has experienced more tense ties with China recently.
G7
France is hosting the G7 Summit in 2026 and both sides reiterated their commitment to make the Evian event, in June, a success/+.
Critical Minerals
Japan and France will cooperate in the Caremag Rare Earth Refining Project. The Project aims to secure key rare earth elements (REE) such as Disprosium and Terbium, that are essential for the #EnergyTransition and for defense applications.
Civil Nuclear
In light of the high risk of an energy crisis, both countries are contemplating stepping up their nuclear energy program. Thus, both sides agreed to collaborate on fast reactors and spent fuel recycling, where France can share its expertise with Japan.
Space Technology
France and Japan will partner to undertake space debris removal. Macron even paid a visit to a Japanese company specialized in this particular task.
Encryption Technolgy
Japan and France will work together to further research and development of encryption technology based on DNA.
Artificial Intelligence
Both sides agreed to hold regular dialogue on AI innovation, security and governance.
Takeaways
From the agreements signed, it is clear that Japan and France are graduating from a trade-centric cooperation to a techno-centric partnership. In a tumultuous world fractured along China and the USA, middle powers such as France and Japan need to join hands to build greater autonomy.