Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is visiting Australia from 3 to 5 May for official talks in Canberra with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, focusing on strengthening defence, economic and energy cooperation between the two countries.

Australia and Japan describe their relationship as a “special strategic partnership,” and the visit reflects growing coordination between the two Indo-Pacific nations amid evolving regional security and economic challenges.

During their bilateral meeting, the leaders discussed economic security, trade, supply-chain resilience, defence cooperation, clean energy and critical minerals. The talks included the signing of a Japan–Australia Joint Declaration on Economic Security Cooperation, aimed at expanding collaboration in strategic industries, emerging technologies and resilient supply chains.

Energy cooperation remains a central pillar of the partnership. Japan is a major buyer of Australian liquefied natural gas, coal and resources, and both countries are working to increase cooperation on clean energy and future fuels.

Defence and regional security were also key topics, reflecting expanded joint military exercises and closer strategic coordination in recent years as both nations seek to support stability and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific.

Welcome to Australia, @takaichi_sanae 🇦🇺🇯🇵

Australia and Japan are strengthening our partnership to build more resilient economies in the face of this global energy crisis.

That means more trade and economic opportunity for Australians.

Because working together, we are… pic.twitter.com/HWhIUS2XjA

— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) May 4, 2026

As part of the visit, Prime Minister Takaichi joined Prime Minister Albanese at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra for a wreath-laying ceremony honouring Australian service personnel and recognising the long-standing security ties between the two countries.

She also visited the Nara Peace Park, where she paid tribute at the memorial to former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, honouring his legacy in strengthening Australia–Japan relations.

Working together, we can create a more peaceful world.

Here at Nara Peace Park, Prime Minister @takaichi_sanae and I planted a tree in honour of that peace.

And we laid a wreath at the Shinzo Abe memorial.

Australia and Japan are bonded by our shared democratic values and… pic.twitter.com/dLC8gp0Wol

— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) May 4, 2026

The visit highlights the continued strengthening of Australia–Japan ties as both governments deepen cooperation across security, trade and technology.

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