Takaichi and Merz agree to deepen economic, tech ties
By The BriefBrief
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz agreed in Tokyo on Wednesday to deepen cooperation on economic security and high technology. They expressed “grave concern” over economic coercion, including arbitrary export restrictions and retaliatory measures on critical minerals. It was Merz’s first Japan visit since taking office in May 2025.
WHO:Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz
WHAT:They agreed to deepen Japan-Germany cooperation on economic security and high technology and expressed concern about economic coercion.
WHEN:Oct 28, 2026
WHERE:Tokyo, Japan
WHY:The leaders cited concern about economic coercion, including arbitrary export restrictions and retaliatory measures on critical minerals, as an issue behind their cooperation.
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