Japan's Prime Minister Kishida Fumio has agreed with his French counterpart Gabriel Attal to further strengthen bilateral relations and work closely together on the situations in Ukraine and East Asia.
Kishida held talks with Attal in Paris on Wednesday. It was their first meeting since Attal took office.
Kishida said at the outset of the talks that France is an exceptional partner for Japan with shared values and principles, amid the tense international situation.
The two affirmed that their countries will further strengthen ties through a five-year roadmap agreed last December. It covers bilateral cooperation in a wide range of areas including security and economy.
The leaders expressed hope that exchanges among people in both countries will be enhanced through events such as this summer's Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris and the Expo 2025 to be held in Osaka.
Attal reiterated his condolences for the passing of the late manga artist Toriyama Akira, known for such works as "Dragon Ball," noting that many French people are familiar with Japanese manga.