The inaugural Strategic Dialogue Conference between Japan and West Asia, organised by the Centre for Strategic Studies (CSS) at the University of Jordan (UJ) and the Research Centre for Advanced Science and Technology (RCAST) at the University of Tokyo, commenced at UJ on Sunday.
The conference, as reported by The Jordan Times, focusing on enhancing Japanese relations with West Asian countries, addresses topics such as economic and regional integration, technology transfer, and security policy development.
At the opening ceremony, UJ President Prof. Nathir Obeidat emphasised the conference as a milestone in Jordanian-Japanese relations, highlighting the ties as “governed by values of respect and stability” and serving as a model of international relations.
Obeidat also stressed the increasing conviction in Jordan that education and research are key to sustainable economic growth. He expressed hope that Japan would support Jordan in creating an infrastructure conducive to scientific advancement and industrial partnerships.
Japanese Ambassador to Amman, Jiro Okuyama, marked the occasion by referencing the 70th anniversary of Jordanian-Japanese diplomatic relations and the 50th anniversary of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in Jordan.
Ambassador Okuyama described Jordan as a “strategic” partner for Japan, highlighting its role as a regional centre and a gateway to West Asia and Africa.
The two-day conference features discussions with experts and decision-makers aimed at strengthening the partnership between Japan and West Asia. The agenda includes tackling the challenges posed by extremism and terrorism, which impact regional stability and Japanese interests.
Additionally, the conference sheds light on Japanese investments in West Asia, particularly in the entrepreneurship sector and renewable energy, further cementing the strategic partnership between the regions.
