EU’s Michel: Japan is the Union’s closest strategic partner in Asia

European Council President Charles Michel said in a statement on Thursday, “Japan is EU’s closest strategic partner in Asia.”

Additional quotes

Will expand our close cooperation to condemn Russia, expand sanctions.

Discussed close cooperation to counter measures to circumvent sanctions.

Want to deepen consultations over China.

Discussed how to get most out of various partnerships, including in energy.

In response, Japan PM Fumio Kishida said that they agreed to further cooperate with the EU and the group of seven on measures to deal with Russia.