British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer used the culmination of substantive talks in Tokyo to formally invite Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to visit the United Kingdom, signalling a renewed focus on reinforcing bilateral ties amid shifting global dynamics.

The invitation followed discussions in the Japanese capital on strengthening cooperation in cybersecurity, economic resilience and the supply of critical minerals — sectors both governments identified as strategic priorities in response to growing geopolitical pressures and technological change.

Starmer, speaking alongside Takaichi at a joint press conference on Saturday, highlighted that the relationship between London and Tokyo is “stronger now than it has been in decades,” emphasising the importance of deepening collaboration to address shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

The leaders agreed to accelerate joint efforts on collective security, including new frameworks for cybersecurity cooperation and ensuring stable supply chains for essential resources such as rare earths and other critical minerals.

Both countries also reaffirmed commitments to multilateral trade initiatives and bolstering economic resilience against external shocks.

Starmer’s trip to Japan — coming on the heels of a significant visit to Beijing aimed at diversifying economic ties — reflects the United Kingdom’s broader diplomatic strategy of engaging key partners across Asia to foster stability and mutual prosperity.

In extending the invitation, Starmer underscored the UK’s intent to host Takaichi for what officials describe as a visit that will build on this momentum, reinforce shared values and explore further avenues for defence and technological cooperation.

The invitation is poised to further elevate Japan-UK relations, aligning both democracies as like-minded partners amid a complex international landscape.