The European Union and Japan convened their third Digital Partnership Council in Tokyo to enhance their technological and digital collaboration. The meeting was led by Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, along with Japanese officials Masaaki Taira, Minister for Digital Transformation, Masashi Adachi, State Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications, and Shinji Takeuchi, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry.
Amidst global geopolitical uncertainties, both parties acknowledged the importance of strengthening their partnership. They emphasized the need to increase competitiveness and promote a values-driven approach to global digital governance while enhancing economic security through resilient critical digital technologies. The meeting reviewed progress since the previous council in 2024.
The EU and Japan committed to collaborating on core digital technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), 5G/6G networks, semiconductors, high-performance computing, and quantum technology. They also agreed to cooperate on data governance, online platforms, submarine cables, Arctic connectivity routes, digital identities and trust services.
Key outcomes from the Council included:
– **Semiconductors:** Both parties confirmed a commitment to joint research on semiconductors aimed at supply chain resilience through information exchange.
– **Research:** Expansion of cooperation on beyond 5G/6G research was agreed upon with a focus on the 6G MIRAI-HARMONY project.
– **Quantum Computing & AI:** A joint research call for projects on quantum computing applications in biomedicine and climate modeling was launched. Commitment to promoting safe AI practices was reiterated.
– **Digital Identities & Trust Services:** Efforts towards interoperability of academic credentials through digital identity were discussed.
– **Data Governance:** Work began on establishing a joint working group for improved data sharing.
– **Online Platforms & Cybersecurity:** Regulatory exchanges were engaged in for effective online platform governance. Through the sixth EU-Japan Cyber Dialogue regulatory developments were shared focusing on infrastructure protection.
– **Submarine Cables & Connectivity:** Cooperation on submarine cables was reinforced with recognition of Arctic connectivity’s importance for secure data flows between Europe and Japan.
Looking ahead, Henna Virkkunen will meet Japanese Minister Minoru Kiuchi to sign a Letter of Intent regarding quantum technology cooperation addressing global challenges like climate change. The fourth Digital Partnership Council is scheduled for 2026 in Brussels.
This ongoing partnership underscores both regions’ status as leading digital economies since its inception during the 29th Japan-EU summit in Tokyo in 2022. It aligns with the EU’s strategy aimed at strengthening ties within the Indo-Pacific region through collaborative research and regulatory dialogue.
