Japan and Italy signaled a continued strengthening of bilateral defense and diplomatic relations during a high-profile reception in Tokyo on November 4.
Attending the event on behalf of Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, State Minister for Foreign Affairs NAKASONE Yasutaka addressed attendees gathered at the official residence of the Italian Ambassador to Japan to commemorate Italian Armed Forces Day.
The gathering coincided with a key historical milestone, marking 160 years since diplomatic channels were first established between the two nations. Addressing the audience, Nakasone highlighted the recent exchange of leader-level visits, framing the anniversary year as a launchpad for future collaboration.
In his remarks, State Minister NAKASONE welcomed the realization of mutual visits between the leaders of Japan and Italy during this significant year of the 160th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He expressed his hope that the Japan-Italy relationship will continue to develop and reach even greater heights.
Beyond historical milestones, the discussions focused heavily on regional security frameworks and cross-continental defense alignment. Japanese officials underlined the growing strategic significance of Italy’s presence in Asian maritime channels, noting how European involvement bridges Euro-Atlantic stability with the Indo-Pacific theatre.
Furthermore, State Minister NAKASONE noted that Italy’s ongoing engagement in the Indo-Pacific region contributes to deepening security cooperation between the Euro-Atlantic and the Indo-Pacific. He also expressed his hope for the further development of cooperation with Italy toward the realization of the updated “Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)”.
The diplomatic exchange reinforces Japan’s broader strategy of integrating European security partners into its regional stability initiatives, as both nations aim to expand joint defense cooperation in the coming years.
According to an official statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan on November 2026.
