The Japanese leader also proposed a strategic mineral stockpiling plan during the summit to counter China and boost Tokyo’s global role
3-MIN READ3-MIN ListenMaria SiowPublished: 12:25pm, 16 Jun 2026Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s first attendance at this week’s G7 summit aims to turn her rapport with Donald Trump into a bridge between the US president and the bloc’s leaders, as she seeks to cement her image as Japan’s “Iron Lady”.During a working dinner at the three-day meeting which began in Evian, eastern France, on Monday, Takaichi also proposed a joint strategic stockpile partnership to boost critical mineral supply chains and dent China’s dominance in the sector.“I want to discuss urgent issues frankly with other leaders and demonstrate the G7’s unity in leading the international community’s response to the issues,” she told reporters ahead of the trip, her first to Europe since taking office last October.
“As a representative of Asia, I’m eager to express Japan’s position and efforts, including the perspective of the Indo-Pacific region.”
“Takaichi has maintained positive relations with the G7 nations, including good rapport with Trump while seeking deeper cooperation with European partners in areas ranging from defence and economic security,” Nishimura said.
