Key points

On October 23, 2026, Acting Secretary-General Hagiuda of Japan's Liberal Democratic Party met with ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Secretary-General Kao at the LDP headquarters. Considering the increasing uncertainty in the Middle East and concerns over cybersecurity, Hagiuda stated that "Japan's presence, distinct from both the United States and China, will become more important than ever," emphasizing Japan's contributions to strengthening energy security in the ASEAN region. He also outlined prospects for exchanges leading up to the 60th anniversary of Japan-ASEAN relations next year. [1]

Meeting between Acting Secretary-General Hagiuda and ASEAN Secretary-General Kao

On October 23, 2026, Acting Secretary-General Hagiuda of the Liberal Democratic Party met with ASEAN Secretary-General Kao at the LDP headquarters. As the chairman of a bipartisan parliamentary league supporting ASEAN, Hagiuda exchanged views on strengthening Japan-ASEAN relations. The meeting served as an important opportunity to deepen mutual trust and is positioned as a foundation for future cooperation. Strengthened collaboration is particularly anticipated in economic and security fields. Similar content was also reported by ANN News. [1] [2]

During the meeting, Hagiuda emphasized that Japan's unique presence, independent of both the United States and China, will become increasingly important to ASEAN. This statement reflects the international situation marked by growing uncertainty in the Middle East and rising cybersecurity concerns, and is part of Japan's diplomatic strategy. Japan expressed its intention to strengthen its role as a partner contributing to stability and prosperity in the ASEAN region. This is expected to enhance Japan's presence amid the region's increasing multipolarity. [1] [2]

Emphasis on Japan's Significance in ASEAN and Contributions to Energy Security

Hagiuda pointed out that ASEAN is located at a critical point for energy and resource supply and is greatly affected by fluctuations in the international situation. Especially amid increasing uncertainty in the Middle East, he expressed Japan's intention to continue contributing to energy resilience through measures such as joint oil stockpiles. This is regarded as an important effort toward ensuring regional stability. Japan's support contributes to ASEAN's sustainable development and security, and further cooperation in the energy sector is anticipated. [1]

Additionally, Japan's role amid rising cybersecurity concerns is also regarded as important. While the ASEAN region experiences remarkable economic growth, the risk of cyberattacks is also increasing. Japan plans to strengthen security cooperation through technological support and policy collaboration. This is expected to contribute to overall regional stability and trust-building. Japan's significance is positioned not only as an economic partner but also as an important actor in security matters. [1]

Prospects for Future Exchanges and Cooperation

ASEAN Secretary-General Kao expressed the intention to invite Acting Secretary-General Hagiuda to Indonesia next year to mark the 60th anniversary of Japan-ASEAN relations. This symbolizes the strengthening of their relationship and represents an important opportunity to promote future exchanges. Through commemorative events, cooperation in economic, cultural, and security fields is expected to deepen further. Japan-ASEAN collaboration is anticipated to be strengthened across multiple areas, with particular attention to deepening economic ties. The ASEAN Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Federation has requested revisions to the AJCEP (ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership) to enhance economic cooperation. [1] [3]

Furthermore, on October 21, 2026, Digital Minister Furukawa received a courtesy visit from ASEAN Secretary-General Kao and exchanged views on cooperation in the digital field. Minister Furukawa introduced initiatives related to the international deployment of the Government AI by the Digital Agency and explored possibilities for collaboration centered on data policies and artificial intelligence (AI). This is expected to strengthen Japan-ASEAN cooperation not only economically but also in digital technology fields. Progress in policy dialogues and cooperative projects is anticipated. [4]