Japan seeks French backing as Macron begins Asia trip in Iran war’s shadow
Emmanuel Macron touched down in Tokyo on Tuesday with a packed agenda and a receptive audience in a Japanese government anxious about a choked oil route and looking for support amid its diplomatic falling-out with Beijing.
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Céline Pajon, head of Japan and Indo-Pacific research at the French Institute of International Relations’ Centre for Asian Studies, said Tokyo was likely to seek French backing against what it saw as China’s “economic and political coercion” – particularly with France preparing to host a G7 summit in June.
“The visit also underscores a shared recognition of the growing linkages between the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions, and a mutual drive to diversify strategic partnerships,” Pajon said.
The Hormuz dimension
Looming over Macron’s visit is the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow chokepoint through which much of Asia’s oil and gas typically flows.
Pajon said France and Japan might explore cooperation to secure safe passage through the strait post-conflict, ideally through a multinational coalition operating under a UN mandate.
“Japan, in particular, brings highly regarded expertise in mine warfare, with mine-countermeasure vessels that could play a pivotal role,” she said.
‘Special partners’
Macron’s visit would deepen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between France and Japan, Japanese government spokesman Minoru Kihara said on March 13, calling the two nations “special partners that share fundamental values and principles”.
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This week’s visit is expected to advance joint efforts in next-generation nuclear reactors, artificial intelligence, space and dual-use technologies and critical minerals supply chains.
“These initiatives aim to reduce vulnerabilities and bolster autonomy,” Pajon said.
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“Macron’s visit aims to strengthen multifaceted cooperation with this like-minded partner,” Pajon said, adding that Seoul had been invited to participate as a partner country at this year’s G7 summit in France.
>> Un article à lire en intégralité sur le site du South China Morning Post.
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Céline PAJON
Research Fellow, Head of Japan and Indo-Pacific Research, Center for Asian Studies, Ifri
