Macron called for a ceasefire in the Middle East during his visit to Japan

(Patria) - French President Emmanuel Macron called for a ceasefire in the Middle East during his visit to Japan on Wednesday, AP reported.

Macron, who spoke with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, said they both believe in international law, international order, and democratic values, adding: "That is why... we are both committed to the return of peace, a ceasefire, peace, and the free passage through the Strait of Hormuz."

Takaichi said the two leaders agreed on the importance of rapid de-escalation of the conflict and ensuring the security of the vital waterway and stable supply of goods.

"Given that the international environment is becoming increasingly difficult, I believe it is particularly important for Japanese and French leaders to deepen our friendship and cooperation," Takaichi said at a joint press conference at the Akasaka Palace in Tokyo.

The leaders also said they agreed to deepen cooperation in defense, rare mineral development, nuclear energy, space, and other areas.

Japan and France have strengthened their defense cooperation in the Indo-Pacific in recent years, where France, which has troops, citizens, and resources throughout the region, seeks to protect its interests and demonstrate its presence alongside other democracies concerned about China's growing influence.

Earlier on Tuesday, Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and his French counterpart Catherine Vautrin signed a roadmap for defense cooperation between the two countries through increased joint exercises and exchanges in the Indo-Pacific.

Separately, Japanese and French trade ministers signed an agreement on a joint rare mineral project.

China controls most of the global production of rare minerals, which are used to make powerful, heat-resistant magnets in industries such as defense and electric vehicles.

Macron and Takaichi said the two sides agreed to cooperate in the development of a fast breeder reactor and a nuclear fuel recycling program, which Japan has been struggling with.

Macron was in Japan as US President Donald Trump had said overnight that the responsibility for maintaining the Strait of Hormuz would fall on the countries that rely on it, saying "it's not for us. It will be for France" and "whoever uses the strait".

Trump is considered increasingly angry about Europe's lack of support for the US-Israeli war. He lashed out at France, saying it had been "very unhelpful".

Macron did not mention Trump or his comments at the press conference, where journalists were not allowed to ask questions.
On Thursday, Macron and Takaichi are scheduled to visit a company specializing in space debris removal technology as part of the two countries' cooperation in space.

Macron will then have a meeting and lunch with Emperor Naruhito before heading to South Korea.