Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Photo courtesy of Jiji Press.
Japan Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is expected to travel to Australia during the Golden Week holidays later this month for talks with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, government sources said.
The trip was being arranged as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral ties, with both sides expected to tackle key regional and economic concerns.
Takaichi was also weighing a possible visit to Vietnam, although officials said a final decision would depend on developments in the Middle East.
During the meeting with Albanese, energy security was expected to be a central topic on the agenda.
The Japanese leader was seeking to coordinate with Australia on ensuring stable maritime routes, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, which has faced disruptions.
Japan depends heavily on Australia for energy imports, including a significant share of liquefied natural gas and coal supplies.
Takaichi was expected to request continued cooperation to maintain steady shipments of these resources.
Separately, Vietnam has sought Japan’s support in securing oil supplies, with Tokyo expected to explore possible areas of cooperation if the visit pushes through.