German Chancellor Friedrich Merz travels to Tokyo on Wednesday to meet Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, focusing on bilateral economic cooperation, European and Asian security, and potential defense industry partnerships.
German Economic Talks in Tokyo
Economic ties between Germany and Japan, both members of the Group of Seven (G7) leading industrialized democracies, sit at the center of the Tokyo agenda. German government sources said that several declarations of intent are expected to be signed during the visit.
Those declarations cover cooperation in high technology, critical raw materials, semiconductors, hydrogen, and research. Officials are also planning a double-digit number of business agreements worth billions of euros in total, according to the same government sources.
Germany Considers Joining Global Fighter Jet Project
Defense cooperation features prominently on the itinerary as Berlin explores new alliances following the collapse of the Franco-German Future Combat Air System fighter jet project. Germany is currently considering joining the Global Combat Air Programme, a next-generation fighter jet project involving Japan, Britain, and Italy.
Beyond industrial defense projects, security challenges in Asia and Europe remain a core topic of discussion. Japan stands as one of Ukraine’s most important supporters outside Europe amid Russia’s continuing onslaught.
Chancellor Merz Asia Tour Context
This diplomatic journey marks Friedrich Merz’s third visit to Asia since taking office as chancellor in 2025. The chancellor stopped in Singapore on Tuesday and plans to travel to South Korea following his official meetings in Japan.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Merz Japan Visit
What specific technology sectors are included in the upcoming German-Japanese agreements?
Declarations of intent cover high technology, critical raw materials, semiconductors, hydrogen, and research, according to German government sources.
Which nations currently participate in the Global Combat Air Programme?
Japan, Britain, and Italy currently make up the next-generation fighter jet project that Germany is considering joining.
What other Asian nations are on the chancellor’s itinerary?
Chancellor Merz visited Singapore on Tuesday and plans to travel to South Korea after concluding his meetings in Japan.