Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida suggested creating a dialogue framework with Thailand to support the country's automotive industry, particularly in enhancing its competitive edge in electric vehicles and other advanced automobile technologies. During a Tokyo meeting with Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, Kishida presented this proposal, to which the Thai leader responded by expressing willingness to consider the offer.
Kishida and Srettha directed relevant government agencies in their respective nations to expedite necessary coordination. Srettha expressed his willingness to assist Japanese automotive-related companies operating within Thailand. On the same day, Kishida held a separate meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. In their discussions, they affirmed their commitment to facilitating negotiations between Japan and the Philippines on a bilateral reciprocal access agreement. This agreement aims to streamline procedures for visits by Japanese Self-Defense Forces personnel and Philippine troops to each other's countries.
Also, they agreed to collaborate in strengthening cooperation between the coast guards of Japan and the Philippines. Srettha and Marcos are currently in Tokyo for a three-day special summit until Monday, commemorating 50 years of amicable and cooperative relations between Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).