Japan proposes co-hosting Asia Zero Emission Community summit with Philippines

Japan on Tuesday proposed jointly hosting an Asia Zero Emission Community summit with the Philippines to strengthen regional energy cooperation amid prolonged instability in the Middle East. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi made the proposal during a 20-minute telephone conversation with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., according to Japan's Foreign Ministry. Takaichi emphasized the importance of strengthening economic and energy resilience through cooperation among regional countries. She also expressed Japan's willingness to work with the Philippines, this year's chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), ahead of the bloc-related summit meetings scheduled for November. Marcos welcomed the Japanese initiative and expressed Manila's readiness to cooperate in preparations for the upcoming meetings, the Japanese Foreign ministry said. The two leaders also reviewed bilateral relations and welcomed progress across several sectors since Marcos' state visit to Japan in May. They agreed to continue cooperation to promote regional peace and stability, according to the ministry. Launched under Japan's leadership in 2023, the Asia Zero Emission Community is a regional initiative aimed at accelerating decarbonization while ensuring energy security and economic growth. The framework brings together Japan, Australia and nine Southeast Asian countries to promote clean energy investment, technological cooperation and pathways toward net-zero emissions. It recognizes differing national circumstances and supports multiple approaches to reducing carbon emissions while maintaining reliable energy supplies.