Japan’s Ambassador to ASEAN Masahiko Kiya San says that boosting funding will enhance educational and cultural initiatives and foster deeper ties between Japan and ASEAN nations.
In a major move to reinforce its diplomatic and cultural ties with ASEAN members, Japan has committed over USD 250 million to fund cultural exchange programs over the next decade.
Speaking to a news channel about the development, Japan’s ambassador to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Masahiko Kiya referring to the bloc as a “trusted partner,” emphasising that the relationship between Japan and ASEAN is grounded in mutual trust and cooperation, with cultural exchanges forming a pivotal element of this partnership.
“The major pillar or the background of this strategic partner relationship is people-to-people exchange,” Kiya stated, reflecting the importance of nurturing long-lasting bonds beyond political and economic cooperation.
This funding boost reflects Japan’s longstanding relationship with ASEAN, one that has flourished since the formalisation of their dialogue in 1977. The additional resources will enhance cooperation in education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges, aiming to foster deeper mutual understanding between Japan and ASEAN member countries.
Amid increasing geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific, Japan’s investment in strengthening ASEAN ties highlights the importance of people-to-people connections for fostering peace and stability. Through cultural diplomacy, Japan aims to create a resilient, cooperative network, making mutual understanding a foundation for diplomatic and economic relations.
Japan has consistently supported ASEAN’s peace and prosperity efforts, notably through its endorsement of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), which aligns with Japan’s own principles of peace and cooperation in the region.
The funds, totalling 40 billion yen, will primarily focus on broadening academic collaborations, facilitating cultural exchange initiatives, and strengthening interpersonal connections.
The initiative focuses on expanding academic exchanges, inviting ASEAN academics to study in Japan and vice versa.
Japan’s cultural programs support its broader diplomatic strategy, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs viewing educational exchanges as vital for easing tensions and fostering mutual understanding. Initiatives like JENESYS, which has facilitated thousands of youth exchanges, aim to shape future leaders who will strengthen ASEAN-Japan relations.
Japan’s broader vision includes strengthening economic ties with ASEAN in sectors like digitalization, decarbonization, and energy security. Through initiatives like the Blue Economy Innovation project with ASEAN and UNDP, Japan aims to address climate change and marine pollution. Japan also supports the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), fostering regional dialogue and cooperation for long-term economic resilience and security.
Looking ahead, Japan’s commitment to enhancing ASEAN ties will be prominently featured at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka. The event will provide both Japan and ASEAN member states with an opportunity to showcase their joint initiatives, celebrating shared values and cooperative achievements. ASEAN’s participation with the theme “Building Bridges” will highlight the importance of cross-cultural dialogue, while individual member states will have their own pavilions to further demonstrate their unique contributions to the region.
Japan’s cultural diplomacy with ASEAN strengthens historical ties and paves the way for future collaboration. Through education, cultural exchange, and people-to-people initiatives, Japan is investing in a future of mutual respect, understanding, and continued partnership for regional prosperity and peace.
