Japan's PM Takaichi to meet with Australia's Albanese about energy security

On Monday, the Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will hold talks with his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese in Canberra. Energy security and rare earths are expected to be top of the agenda.

Australia is one of the major suppliers of liquified gas to Japan. The country has closely monitored the developments in this industry. From the threat of strikes at major gas facilities and the increasing political pressures to increase export taxes.

Takaichi’s office stated in a notice before her visit that the leaders would discuss energy security and economic security. This is due to concerns stemming mainly from Middle East tension.

On?Monday, Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong said to reporters that "Gas is a key element in our discussions" because it underpins a?shared security of energy between our two countries.

Takaichi arrived in Vietnam for a three-day trip, during which she spoke about energy and minerals, and encouraged Southeast Asian nations to bolster their regional supply chains.

Japan has signed contracts worth A$10 billion ($7billion) to supply Australia with a fleet of?warships. This is the largest military deal Tokyo has made since lifting a ban in 2014. Reporting by Alasdair Pa in Sydney, Editing by Clarence Fernandez

(source: Reuters)