Riyadh: Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi today received Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan Takeshi Iwaya. During the meeting, they explored avenues to strengthen Gulf-Japanese relations across various sectors, focusing on economic cooperation, promoting trade, and increasing exchange volumes to meet shared goals in advancing economic ties. They also reviewed the progress of the first round of free trade agreement negotiations between the GCC and Japan, held in December 2024.

According to Saudi Press Agency, Albudaiwi noted that preparations for the second round of negotiations, scheduled to be held in Tokyo by the end of June, were also discussed. He emphasized the significant importance the GCC places on this agreement, given the robust relationship between the two sides.

The two officials also followed up on the latest developments in the joint action plan for the period 2024-2028. This plan serves as a roadmap for deepening the strategic partnership between the GCC countries and Japan, aiming to enhance cooperation in energy, trade, investment, education, health, tourism, cultural exchange, and political coordination. The discussion also included recent developments in the regional and international arenas.