Japan and Qatar continue to deepen their Japan-Qatar Strategic Partnership, marked by diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange. The relationship has strengthened through tradition, dialogue, and collaborative initiatives.
Ambassador of Japan to Qatar Naoto Hisajima highlighted three key milestones reflecting the growing Japan-Qatar Strategic Partnership. First, the third Japan–Qatar Strategic Dialogue took place in Doha on January 13. Japan’s Foreign Minister met Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister to discuss bilateral, regional, and global issues. These talks reinforced shared commitments to humanitarian efforts, including reconstruction initiatives in Gaza.
Second, Japan and Qatar signed a long-term LNG agreement. Japan’s JERA will secure three million tonnes of LNG annually from QatarEnergy for 27 years starting in 2028. This agreement further cements the energy dimension of the Japan-Qatar Strategic Partnership.
Third, the Osaka–Kansai Expo attracted over 25 million visitors, showcasing Qatar’s sustainability and innovation projects. Japanese hosts welcomed several Qatari guests, strengthening cultural and economic ties. Looking ahead, Japan will host the Asian Games in Aichi–Nagoya later this year, followed by the International Horticultural Expo in Yokohama in 2027. These events mirror Qatar’s global engagement in sports, trade, and culture.
On diplomacy, Japan and Qatar cooperate closely to promote peace and stability in the Middle East. Both nations leverage multilateral frameworks, including the United Nations, to address regional challenges and mediate conflicts. This collaboration demonstrates the strategic and long-term scope of their partnership.
Tourism between the countries is rising, aided by Japan’s visa waiver program for Qatari nationals. In 2024, Japan welcomed 3,679 visitors from Qatar. Bilateral trade also remains robust, with Qatar exporting QR24.4 billion in goods to Japan and importing QR6.7 billion, mostly in energy products. Beyond energy, both countries explore growth in infrastructure, transport, and project management.
Defence cooperation is still in early stages, focusing on educational exchanges and gradually expanding as trust deepens. The Emperor’s Birthday celebrations in Japan provided an opportunity to reflect on tradition and the historical ties underpinning the Japan-Qatar Strategic Partnership.
Overall, both countries demonstrate that diplomacy, trade, culture, and strategic dialogue can foster lasting international relationships.
