Tokyo, 07 July 2025 (QNA)

Japan's Vice Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Kato Akiyoshi and Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Councilآ (GCC) Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, who is visiting Tokyo, discussed number of investment and trade-related issues, the latest developments regarding the second round of negotiations on the free trade agreement between the GCC and Japan, and ways to advance it to strengthen the bilateral partnership.

During the meeting, the two sides emphasized that the free trade agreement between the GCC and Japan would represent a strategic step that would contribute to opening up broader horizons for trade exchange and strengthening economic ties.

Albudaiwi also addressed a number of economic indicators and statistics for the GCC countries, noting in this context that the GCC countries' economic performance, and the sustained growth and development they are witnessing across various sectors, have contributed to strengthening their standing regionally and internationally, making them a focus of interest for many countries seeking to strengthen their economic and trade relations with them.

GCC Business Watch reported that the high-level meeting focused on deepening trade, investment, and economic cooperation. Both sides reviewed progress on the GCC–Japan Free Trade Agreement (FTA), discussing concrete steps to advance the second round of negotiations. They highlighted the FTA’s strategic importance as a driver for boosting bilateral trade, fostering economic integration, and laying the groundwork for long-term, sustainable cooperation.

Secretary General Albudaiwi shared key economic indicators underscoring the GCC’s strong growth, sectoral development, and rising global competitiveness—making the region an increasingly attractive trade and investment partner. He reaffirmed the GCC’s commitment to strengthening economic diplomacy with Asia, emphasizing Japan’s vital role as a partner whose technological and industrial capabilities align with the GCC’s development goals.

This meeting marks an important step toward reinforcing GCC–Japan ties, enhancing economic resilience, and opening new pathways for collaboration.