During the three years I served as Japanese Ambassador to France from December 2022, I deeply appreciated the numerous diplomatic efforts conducted by Japan and France, and the maturity of our bilateral relationship.
In 2023, shortly after being appointed to my position, Japan assumed the G7 Presidency. In January, then-Prime Minister Kishida chose France as his first overseas destination of the year, symbolizing the exceptional nature of Japan–France relations. It was a deeply moving moment when President Macron personally guided Prime Minister Kishida through Notre-Dame Cathedral, which was still undergoing restoration at the time. The same year, France hosted the Rugby World Cup. Traveling throughout the country to support the Japanese national team was a valuable opportunity to observe local conditions and experience the rich culture of each region.
In 2024, France experienced significant political developments, including the dissolution of the National Assembly in June. Despite these domestic shifts, the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games were a great success. The innovative Opening Ceremony held along the Seine River, a symbol of Paris itself, left a deep impression of France’s groundbreaking aesthetics and potential.
Then, in 2025, the World Expo Osaka–Kansai in Japan concluded with great success. During the Expo’s French National Day in September, we were honored by the presence of Mr. Saint-Martin, then Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and French Nationals Abroad. Throughout Expo 2025, numerous business representatives and local governors visited Japan, generating dynamic cultural and commercial exchanges through the French Pavilion’s program and beyond the Expo site. I firmly believe these exchanges were a significant positive outcome of Japan hosting the World Expo.
As Ambassador to France, I traveled extensively across the country during my mandate, participating actively in local cultural events and economic fora. I met many regional leaders, including presidents of regional councils and mayors, and sought to understand France’s political, economic, and social landscape from a local perspective. This helped deepen my understanding of France as a nation.
Amid ongoing tensions and heightened uncertainty in the international arena, solidarity between Japan and France as well as between Japan and Europe has become increasingly essential, as like-minded partners sharing fundamental values and principles. It is particularly gratifying that our joint efforts led to the announcement in December 2023 of a new Roadmap on Japan–France Cooperation, charting a concrete path to strengthen our “Exceptional Partnership.” Steady progress has been made in areas such as civil nuclear energy, space, and economic security. In this regard, securing an agreement to ensure stable supplies of critical minerals, including rare earths, symbolized by the Caremag project near the city of Pau, stands out as a notable achievement.
“Solidarity between Japan and France as well as between Japan and Europe has become increasingly essential, as like-minded partners sharing fundamental values and principles.”
Makita Shimokawa, former Japanese Ambassador to France
Following the issuance of this roadmap, Prime Minister Kishida, Foreign Minister Kamikawa and Foreign Minister Iwaya visited France and held in-depth discussions with President Macron, Foreign Minister Barrot and other dignitaries on a wide range of issues, including security and defense, economic security, and global challenges. Japan and France thus continued to strengthen their outstanding relationship.
Leveraging the momentum of Expo 2025, active parliamentary exchanges, including visits to Japan by delegations from the France–Japan Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Groups and travels by presidents of several regional councils, have further contributed to the development of Japan–France friendship. I believe there remains significant potential for deeper, more strategic cooperation and collaboration between our two countries. “We should be able to do much more.” On October 21, Japan inaugurated the Takaichi Cabinet, and I remain confident that the Japan–France relationship will continue to reach new heights under this new administration.
Looking ahead to France’s presidency of the G7 in 2026, important questions remain. Will the G7 be able to unite in restoring the global order under France’s leadership? How will it promote dialogue with the Global South? Having spent a total of ten years working in France, I am deeply grateful to have experienced the country’s greatness and to have lived fulfilling days as a Francophone diplomat.
Amid growing global unpredictability and political change in both Japan and France, I remain confident that our two nations will continue to stand as “Exceptional Partners.”
