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Rabat – Emmanuel Macron arrived in Japan on Tuesday for a visit increasingly overshadowed by the economic fallout from the Middle East war as global concerns mount over energy supply disruptions.
The French president landed in Tokyo shortly before 5:30 p.m. in rainy and windy conditions, ahead of meetings that were initially intended to focus on nuclear energy cooperation and space innovation.
Instead, discussions are expected to center on the consequences of the US-Israel-Iran war, particularly its impact on global energy markets.
France and Japan, both members of the Group of Seven, said on Monday that they were prepared to take “all necessary measures” to ensure market stability as oil and gas supplies face mounting uncertainty.
Macron is scheduled to hold talks on Wednesday with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, in what officials described as a key meeting focused on coordinating responses to the crisis.
“The crisis in the Middle East will be at the heart of discussions,” the French presidency said, adding that both sides would explore “common solutions” to mitigate the economic impact.
Japan, which relies on the Middle East for around 95 percent of its oil imports, has already begun tapping into strategic reserves to cushion the effects of rising fuel prices.
Tensions escalated after Iran effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery through which roughly one-fifth of global oil and gas supplies pass, following strikes by the United States and Israel that began on February 28.
Wednesday’s meeting will mark Macron’s first full bilateral talks with Takaichi, although the two previously met on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in November. Japanese officials said continued diplomatic coordination would be essential to “calm the situation” surrounding Iran.
Beyond the immediate crisis, the leaders are also expected to discuss security cooperation, space partnerships, and plans to sign a roadmap on nuclear energy development in Japan.
Macron’s trip, his fourth to Japan, comes amid heightened regional tensions, including deteriorating ties between Tokyo and Beijing following comments by Takaichi suggesting Japan could respond militarily to any Chinese move against Taiwan.
The French president visited China in December.
During his stay, Macron and his wife, Brigitte, are scheduled to attend a lunch hosted by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako on Thursday, though persistent rain forecast in Tokyo may disrupt plans to view the country’s cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Macron will remain in Japan until April 2 before traveling to South Korea at the invitation of President Lee Jae Myung.
He is set to become the first European leader to pay a state visit to South Korea since the launch of its new administration, according to the South Korean presidential office.
