Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated that the United Kingdom and Japan are forging a “new era of cooperation” following his meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at 10 Downing Street. The discussions took place ahead of the upcoming G7 summit and involved business leaders from both nations.
Landmark Tech Partnership Announced
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) confirmed that a “landmark tech partnership” between the UK and Japan has been established, with backing from businesses in both countries. Sir Keir emphasized that the UK-Japan Frontier Technology Partnership combines “UK excellence in R&D and software with Japanese advanced manufacturing experience and expertise.”
Offshore Wind Investment
The Prime Minister also announced a new offshore wind compact that is expected to unlock up to £9 billion in Japanese investment into the UK’s offshore wind industry. He described the UK-Japan Defence Capability and Industrial Council as “hugely important” and highlighted the GCAP fighter jet development initiative as central to bilateral relations.
Strengthened Security Cooperation
Speaking inside No 10, Sir Keir said: “I’m delighted that we’re building stronger cooperation, a new era of cooperation between our two countries.” He noted that the UK and Japan are “working more closely” on defence and have “lots of issues to discuss in a volatile world” before the G7 summit.
Japanese PM’s Remarks
Ms Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister and leader of the Liberal Democratic Party, stated that the UK and Japan are “strengthening” security cooperation and share a “shared strategic recognition.” She added: “Today, Japan and the UK hold a firm determination to contribute together to peace and stability in the international community, and are highly important, like-minded countries. I believe that our relationship has reached a level that could even be described as quasi-allies.”
Semiconductor Collaboration
DSIT reported that for the first time, a formal partnership has connected the UK’s world-class microchip design expertise with Japan’s advanced manufacturing capabilities. The collaboration between the UK Semiconductor Centre and Rapidus, Japan’s 2nm semiconductor manufacturing facility, will create a direct pathway for UK semiconductor firms to manufacture cutting-edge chips. Rapidus is backed by £11.6 billion in Japanese government investment, marking a critical step in strengthening the resilience of the UK semiconductor sector.
Technology Minister’s Comments
Technology Minister Kanishka Narayan said Japan “is one of our closest tech partners.” Discussing the Frontier Technology Partnership, the Labour MP added: “This deal will offer our talented innovators driving the future of quantum computers, next-generation chips, and clean energy direct access to vital investment, manufacturing and markets. At the same time the UK’s world-class research base, software expertise, and pro-innovation environment makes us the ideal partner for Japanese firms looking to expand and invest. By working together we can bolster growth and jobs across our countries and build a stronger, more secure economy that improves lives across the UK.”
