Published: 09:46 AM, 18 August 2026
Japan and Italy Agree to Work for More Resilient Partnerships
The relationship reached a significant milestone in January 2026 when Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met in Tokyo. -New Japan Times
Japan and Italy have maintained diplomatic relations for 160 years, but their partnership is entering a particularly important phase in 2026.
What began with the Treaty of Amity and Commerce in 1866 has developed into a broad relationship covering trade, investment, defence, technology, culture, science and international diplomacy. The two countries are now seeking to transform their long-standing friendship into a stronger strategic partnership suited to an increasingly uncertain world.
The 160th anniversary of diplomatic relations provides an important opportunity to examine how the relationship has evolved. Japan and Italy are geographically distant and belong to different cultural and historical traditions, yet they share several important characteristics. Both are advanced industrial economies, both have strong manufacturing traditions, and both attach considerable importance to cultural heritage, technological innovation and international cooperation.
The relationship reached a significant milestone in January 2026 when Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met in Tokyo. During the summit, the two leaders agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a "Special Strategic Partnership". They also agreed to strengthen cooperation in security and defence, economic security, critical minerals, advanced technology, artificial intelligence, infrastructure, energy, science and culture.
The decision reflects the changing international environment. Japan faces complex security challenges in the Indo-Pacific, while Italy plays an important role in European and Mediterranean affairs. Both governments increasingly view developments in the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions as interconnected. Their cooperation therefore extends beyond traditional bilateral diplomacy to broader questions concerning global security and the international order.
Defence cooperation has become one of the most important pillars of the relationship. Japan, Italy and the United Kingdom are working together through the Global Combat Air Program to develop a next-generation fighter aircraft. The program represents an unusual level of technological and defence cooperation among the three countries and demonstrates Japan and Italy's willingness to work together on advanced military technology. Earlier agreements have also strengthened practical cooperation between their armed forces.
Economic security is another rapidly expanding area. Global supply-chain disruptions, competition over strategic resources and restrictions involving critical minerals have encouraged Japan and Italy to develop more resilient economic partnerships.
In May 2026, the two countries held their first Economic Security Dialogue in Tokyo and welcomed cooperation concerning semiconductors, critical minerals and high technologies. Such collaboration is increasingly important for industries that depend on reliable international supplies.
Trade and investment remain fundamental to the relationship. Japan possesses considerable expertise in automobiles, electronics, robotics, precision manufacturing and advanced technology, while Italy is internationally recognized for machinery, luxury goods, fashion, design, food products and specialized manufacturing. These complementary strengths create opportunities for businesses in both countries.
The Italy-Japan Business Group continues to provide a platform for companies and business leaders to expand commercial cooperation. In May 2026, officials from both countries reaffirmed their intention to deepen economic relations, highlighting the importance of industrial cooperation and the opportunities created by the new Special Strategic Partnership.
Technology is likely to become an increasingly important part of the relationship. Artificial intelligence, semiconductors, space technology and advanced manufacturing are areas where collaboration can produce benefits for both economies. Japan's strength in high technology can complement Italy's industrial expertise, while joint research and investment could create new opportunities for companies and universities.
Space cooperation is also gaining prominence. During the June 2026 summit in Rome, the two governments issued a joint statement on space cooperation and signed or exchanged several cooperation documents involving relevant ministries, institutions and companies. This indicates that bilateral relations are moving beyond traditional areas into highly specialized fields of science and technology.
Culture remains an equally important foundation of Japan-Italy relations. Japanese interest in Italian art, architecture, fashion, cuisine and cinema is widespread, while Italian audiences have long shown enthusiasm for Japanese literature, animation, design, cuisine and popular culture. These exchanges help create a relationship that extends beyond governments and diplomatic institutions.
The 160th anniversary is consequently being marked through a series of cultural and people-to-people activities. Such programs are important because lasting diplomatic relationships cannot depend solely on meetings between political leaders. Academic exchanges, tourism, artistic cooperation, student programs and cultural events allow ordinary citizens to develop a deeper understanding of each other's societies.
The two countries also cooperate on international issues. Japan and Italy have expressed support for an international order based on the rule of law and have discussed issues including the war in Ukraine, the Indo-Pacific, North Korea and global peace and stability. Their cooperation reflects a broader effort by like-minded countries to coordinate their positions at a time when geopolitical tensions are increasing.
Prime Minister Takaichi's visit to Rome in June 2026 further demonstrated the momentum behind the relationship. The visit came only months after Meloni's trip to Japan, providing reciprocal leadership-level engagement during the anniversary year. The two leaders discussed security, economic security, supply-chain resilience and international affairs, while reaffirming their commitment to developing the Special Strategic Partnership.
There are also opportunities for cooperation on shared domestic challenges. Both Japan and Italy face demographic pressures, including ageing populations and declining birth rates. Their societies are also confronting questions concerning immigration, youth wellbeing, social cohesion and the future of work. Exchanges of policy experience could therefore complement their traditional diplomatic and economic cooperation.
The future of Japan-Italy relations will depend on whether the two countries can turn political declarations into practical projects. Defence programs, technological partnerships, investment, cultural exchanges and scientific cooperation will need sustained attention. Businesses and institutions must also be encouraged to build relationships that survive changes in government.
After 160 years, Japan and Italy are no longer simply friendly nations separated by geography. They are increasingly strategic partners with shared interests in technology, economic resilience, security and a rules-based international system.
The anniversary year is therefore more than an occasion to celebrate history. It is an opportunity to build a new chapter. If Tokyo and Rome can combine their industrial strengths, technological capabilities, cultural influence and diplomatic experience, their partnership could become one of the more significant bridges between Europe and the Indo-Pacific in the years ahead.
