A new cross-party group has been formed to strengthen the longstanding relationship between Wales and Japan, bringing together Members of the Senedd from across the political spectrum to promote closer economic, cultural, educational, sporting and diplomatic ties.
The Cross-Party Friends of Wales and Japan Group was formed following a very successful visit to Wales recently by His Excellency Hiroshi Suzuki, Ambassador of Japan to the United Kingdom.
The group’s membership includes:
- Kerry Ferguson MS – Plaid Cymru, Ceredigion Penfro
- Darren Millar MS – Conservative Party, Clwyd and Chair, of the Group
- Shav Taj MS – Labour Party, Caerdydd Ffynnon Taf
- Gwyn Williams MS – Plaid Cymru, Gŵyr Abertawe
- Nick Carter MS – Plaid Cymru, Caerdydd Ffynnon Taf
- Steven Rodaway MS – Reform UK, Gŵyr Abertawe
The formation of the group reflects the importance attached to the Wales–Japan relationship and the shared ambition to build on the strong foundations that have developed over more than 150 years.
Wales and Japan have a rich history of connections, rooted in industrial links and strengthened through trade, investment, education, sport and cultural exchange. Today, more than 70 Japanese companies operate in Wales, employing over 7,500 people and making a significant contribution to the Welsh economy.
Major Japanese businesses have established a presence in Wales across a range of sectors, including advanced manufacturing, automotive, electronics and technology. These investments, alongside academic partnerships, community connections and cultural initiatives, provide considerable opportunities to develop the relationship further.
The new group will provide a forum for Members of the Senedd from different political parties to work together to identify opportunities for collaboration, encourage further Japanese investment, support educational and cultural exchanges, and promote greater understanding between the people of Wales and Japan.
Darren Millar MS said:
“I am delighted to be Chairing the Cross-Party Friends of Japan Group. Wales already has strong links with Japan and I very much hope that we can deepen our relationships for the benefit of both nations.
“I want to thank Ambassador Suzuki for his enthusiasm for building relationships and links between Japan across the whole of the UK, and hope that we can continue to work together to champion Wales both as a destination for Japanese companies to do business, and for Japanese visitors to enjoy our unique landscapes, heritage and culture.”
Keith Dunn OBE, The Honorary Consul for Japan in Wales, welcomed the formation of the group and will support its work by helping to facilitate engagement with the Japanese Embassy, Japanese businesses and other relevant partners.
Commenting on the initiative, he said:
“I am delighted that Members of the Senedd from across the political spectrum have come together to establish the Cross-Party Friends of Wales and Japan Group.
“Wales and Japan enjoy a close and valued relationship, built on more than 150 years of history, industry, friendship and shared interests. The relationship continues to grow, with Japanese companies making a significant contribution to our economy and with increasing opportunities for collaboration in education, culture, technology and trade.
“The establishment of this group is an important step in ensuring that Wales–Japan relations continue to receive cross-party support and attention within the Senedd. By working together, Members can help raise awareness of the opportunities that exist, strengthen existing partnerships and encourage new initiatives that benefit both nations.
“I would particularly like to thank His Excellency the Ambassador for his continued interest in Wales and the Members of the Senedd who have agreed to participate. I look forward to supporting Darren Millar and the group as it develops its programme of activities and priorities.”
The group will now discuss its way forward, including a programme of activity, with members invited to suggest priorities, potential visits and areas of work for consideration at its first meeting.
As well as promoting trade and investment, the group will have the opportunity to build on the success of the Wales–Japan Year 2025, which highlighted the depth and breadth of the relationship and created new opportunities for engagement between businesses, educational institutions and communities.
The initiative also demonstrates how cross-party cooperation can support international friendship, mutual understanding and shared prosperity, ensuring that the relationship between Wales and Japan continues to develop for future generations.
