Official bilateral relations between Canada and Japan date to 1928, when Japan established a diplomatic mission in Ottawa. Over the course of 95 years, these solid ties have flourished, founded on mutual respect, as well as shared political, economic and cultural perspectives.
“Our two countries have developed our relationship with shared fundamental values such as freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law. We are important economic partners to each other and are both members of the G7 (Group of Seven), G20, Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation. Japan-Canada relations have developed favorably,” H.E. Kanji Yamanouchi, Japanese ambassador to Canada, said.
This economic partnership has resulted in the vibrant presence of iconic Japanese companies across Canada, as well as Canadian companies — notably in such fields as blockchain and clean energy technology — looking to establish fruitful ventures with Japan.
Mississauga, the sister city of Kariya, Aichi Prefecture, for instance, is home to over 100 Japanese companies that contribute greatly to the local economy. “Our relationship with the community of Kariya has fostered strong connections and contributed significantly to the growth and development of both cities. This relationship has facilitated cultural exchanges, educational collaborations and economic partnerships,” Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie shared.
In the meantime, JETRO Toronto’s Executive Director Takeshi Saito emphasized that the Canadian government is “eager to attract Japanese companies in the clean technology market.” He added, “Electric vehicle manufacturing, battery manufacturing and hydrogen production are areas of interest to many Japanese companies looking to expand their production in Canada — which is rich in critical minerals and natural resources.”
Apart from strategic initiatives, ties between the two nations are marked by a rich shared history and a forward-looking partnership. Yamanouchi went on to point out numerous areas in which the two nations continue to work together as strategic partners, including the international situation brought on by the Ukraine crisis, vital strategies to mitigate climate change, global economics, the Japan-Canada Action Plan toward a free and open Indo-Pacific region, and more.
As the ambassador emphasized: “The year 2023 is a significant year for Japan-Canada relations. Amid the demands of the times and in light of the geopolitical reality of the 21st century, I am confident that we can further strengthen our cooperation and coordination and evolve our bilateral relationship into a new chapter.”
