Japan and South Korea have held high-level talks aimed at strengthening security cooperation and deepening economic ties, against a backdrop of rising tensions in East Asia.

Leaders from both countries were expected to focus on the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula, the fate of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea, and cooperation in advanced technologies including artificial intelligence and semiconductors.

The talks come as Tokyo and Seoul seek closer alignment on security in response to North Korea’s weapons programmes and intensifying strategic rivalry between the United States and China in the region.

The meeting took place in the Japanese city of Nara, a week after South Korean leader Lee Jae-myung met Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Relations between Japan and China have been strained following remarks by Japanese politician Sanae Takaichi suggesting Japan could deploy its forces if a Chinese attack on Taiwan posed an existential threat.

China claims Taiwan as part of its territory, a position rejected by the self-governing island.

Lee, who is on a two-day visit to Japan, said earlier that tensions between Japan and China were not desirable for regional stability, but added that he would not intervene in the dispute.

• South Korea’s Lee sees progress with China, stresses importance of Japan ties

The two sides are expected to issue a joint statement after the talks outlining areas of cooperation and shared priorities.

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