New page in Greece-Japan relations

In a significant upgrade in bilateral relations and of deepening cooperation in areas of mutual interest, a Common Statement of Strategic Cooperation between Greece and Japan was signed on Monday by visiting Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida at the latter's residence in Tokyo.

The significance of the Greek premier's visit is also highlighted by the fact that Japan assumes the presidency of the G-7 group this year and is the world's third most powerful economy.

In their joint statement the two leaders also, importantly, cited the need for respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries, "by all members of the international community," and the importance of the peaceful resolution of disputes.

"Our countries are significantly upgrading their strategic relations and we are launching a field of close...