THREE main topics in the EU Japan relationship were dealt with at the summit, according to a joint press statement issued afterwards. These were the strengthening of political bonds, the improvement of trade and investment, and the widening and deepening of co operation between the two sides.
In the political arena, both sides reaffirmed that democracy, development and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms were interdependent and mutually reinforcing, and looked forward to continued cooperation between them on these matters through dialogue.
Of particular interest were the issues of peace and security in Asia and Europe, continuing co operative involvement in bringing stability to former Yugoslavia and the Korean peninsula and in the advancement of the peace process in the Middle East. They also agreed to remain supportive of Russia's move towards strengthening its democracy and to encourage the process of democratisation and improvements of the human rights situation in Myanmar.
Both sides promised to actively contribute to a number of crucial UN reforms.
Noting the success of the first Asia Europe meeting (ASEM), held earlier this year in Bangkok, they emphasised their intention to work together closely to ensure a meaningful follow up to that session and to prepare for the 1998 meeting in London.
With regard to matters of trade, investment and economic co operation, the two parties acknowledged and welcomed recent advancements in bilateral trade. They confirmed that both sides need to continue efforts to understand the other's markets and suggested an early study into the area of distribution to further mutual understanding.
Both sides shared the view that an increase in the level of inward foreign direct investment in Japan by European companies would benefit both sides. The EU side stressed its continuing efforts to attract more Japanese direct investment.