UK and Japan agree to strengthen critical mineral supply chains

Japan and Britain have agreed to deepen co-operation on critical mineral supply chains and economic security, as both countries seek to reduce vulnerabilities in global trade and strengthen ties with like-minded partners.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer reached the agreement during talks in Tokyo on Saturday, highlighting growing international concerns over export restrictions and supply chain disruptions.

Takaichi said it was imperative for Japan, the United Kingdom and their partners to work together to reinforce supply chains, particularly for critical minerals, under the framework of the Japan-UK Economic Security Partnership.

Both leaders also agreed to expand bilateral co-operation in cyber security and space, signalling a broader push to elevate strategic relations beyond trade and investment.

Starmer said the two countries, as major trading nations, share a strong interest in maintaining free and predictable trade and supporting a free and open Indo-Pacific. He added that London and Tokyo would work to strengthen international institutions that provide economic stability, including efforts to expand the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and deepen its co-operation with the European Union.

Takaichi confirmed that Starmer invited her to visit Chequers, the British prime minister’s official country residence, as both sides agreed to take Japan-UK co-operation “to new heights”.

The Tokyo meeting marked the final leg of Starmer’s East Asia tour, following talks in Beijing earlier this week focused on trade and travel ties.

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