In brief
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced plans in Tokyo to secure critical mineral supplies, foster high‑level AI dialogue, and enhance defense collaboration amid rising security concerns.
In Tokyo on Wednesday, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz pledged to strengthen critical‑mineral supply chains in a joint statement, aiming to reduce reliance on China while also expanding cooperation in defense technologies and advanced industries such as artificial intelligence, hydrogen and nuclear fusion.
According to Kyodo News, the two leaders said the initiative would focus on rare earths, noting that China dominates the world market for this essential material. Raw rare earths are used in the manufacture of electric‑vehicle motors, high‑performance semiconductors and advanced defense equipment, making the supply chain a national security priority for both countries.
The agreement also includes the establishment of a high‑level dialogue framework on artificial intelligence and the promotion of private‑sector cooperation in cutting‑edge technologies. Joint efforts will target the development of nuclear fusion research and hydrogen production, expanding the technology portfolio beyond traditional defense.
Takaichi added:
"We agreed to further strengthen our strategic cooperation across a wide range of fields,"She said that the cooperation would be formalized through three joint statements to be issued later in the week.
The partnership comes amid a deteriorating global security environment, with the two leaders underscoring the need for closer defense collaboration. Kyodo reports that Japan has been deepening ties with Germany and other European partners in response to China’s military assertiveness in the Indo‑Pacific and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Tokyo is also planning to update its three key security policy documents later this year, placing the large‑scale deployment of unmanned systems at its core. The focus on drones and autonomous platforms reflects a strategic shift in defense policy that aims to keep pace with rapidly evolving technology.
Germany, meanwhile, has been identified as a potential participant in the Global Combat Air Program, a trilateral effort involving Japan, Britain and Italy to develop a next‑generation fighter jet by 2035. This alignment highlights the broader strategic rapprochement between the two nations on advanced defense matters.
In addition to the two‑country pact, Tokyo stated that it seeks to boost cooperation with other nations on critical minerals. The city’s approach underscores Japan’s intent to diversify supply sources and reduce the risk of Chinese export restrictions in the future.
Rare earths are pivotal to the transition to sustainable technologies, powering electric vehicles, batteries, and renewable‑energy equipment. By securing more stable supply chains, Japan and Germany aim to achieve both economic resilience and environmental sustainability in their high‑tech and defense sectors.
As the two leaders worked toward formalizing the agreement, the broader implications for global supply chains suggest a shift away from China’s dominance. The joint statements will provide a framework for continued collaboration and signal a broader movement among advanced economies to secure essential materials for a greener, more secure future.
