The Foreign Minister informed the Vice-Minister about two meetings between European and Asian ministers that Latvia is planning to host during its EU Presidency – the Asia-Europe Meeting on Education and the Asia-Europe meeting on Transport. Vice-Minister Sonoura commented positively on Latvia's economic development and confirmed continued support for the process of Latvia's accession to the OECD.
The officials agreed that a solid basis has been established for bilateral relations, being further strengthened by a regular exchange of high level visits. The Latvian side reiterated an invitation for the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to visit Latvia. Kentaro Sonoura emphasised the growing interest of Japanese companies in Latvia as a transit and logistics hub. At the same time, Parliamentary Vice-Minister pointed out that Latvia is more and more often highlighted as a tourist destination in the Japanese media and at events promoting tourism.
Both sides concurred that business cooperation has become considerably more dynamic, which is vividly demonstrated by the 70% increase in the number of Japanese tourists to Latvia. Investments by a Japanese company, Mitsui Corporation, in the Riga Port in 2013 also deserve special mention. The Latvian and Japanese officials emphasised that, along with the development of economic cooperation, the legal framework also should be expanded, the negotiations intensified on the Agreement on the Avoidance of Double Taxation and talks facilitated for other agreements currently in preparation.
Referring to the cooperation between the EU and Japan, the discussion partners emphasised the importance of the EU-Japan Free trade Agreement currently being negotiated. The Japanese diplomats requested Latvia's support in expediting a conclusion of the talks. The upcoming EU-Japanese Summit and other current questions on the EU-Japanese agenda were also discussed.
The Minister and Vice Minister also exchanged views on cooperation in international organisations, including the reforms of the UN Security Council, and current international security issues such as the fight against terrorism, developments in Ukraine and the security situation in East Asia.
From 13-14 April, the Japanese delegation is visiting Latvia as the country currently holding the EU Presidency. During the visit, the delegation also had a meeting at the Ministry of Economy.
