Japan relies on Australia for about 40 per cent of its liquefied natural gas imports and about 60 per cent of its coal imports. Takaichi is expected to ask for cooperation to ensure stable supplies.
Meanwhile, Vietnam has asked Japan for assistance in securing oil supplies. Takaichi is prepared to explore how Japan may cooperate during her summit talks with the Southeast Asian country.
Takaichi also hopes to discuss with Australian and Vietnamese leaders how to address China’s aggressive maritime expansion. She aims to strengthen security cooperation with both countries to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
Another expected topic is reinforcement of supply chains for critical minerals, such as rare earths, a sector dominated by China.
[Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]
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