[Title] Three Seas Initiative Summit 2026, Message by Japanese Prime Minister TAKAICHI Sanae

I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations on the convening of the Three Seas Initiative Summit today. I wish to express my sincere respect for the leadership of Croatia, which has actively advanced this Initiative for over a decade since its inception and is hosting this summit as the presiding chair.

Amid the uncertain global situation we face today, a stable energy supply and resilient supply chains are essential foundations that underpin not only a nation's economy but also regional peace and stability. In the vast region connecting the Baltic, Black, and Adriatic Seas, the Three Seas Initiative(3SI)'s efforts to strengthen North-South connectivity in areas such as infrastructure, energy, and digital technology are becoming more important than ever in enhancing the competitiveness and security of Europe as a whole and realizing a united Europe.

Japan places a great importance on the 3SI for the following clear reason. This is because the "Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)" advocated by Japan shares many commonalities with the principles espoused by the 3SI. FOIP is centered on principles that resonate widely within the international community—such as "freedom," "openness," "diversity," "inclusivity," and respect for the "rule of law." As the international order faces significant challenges, upholding these principles is more important than ever.

This year marks the 10th anniversary since Japan first proposed FOIP. During this time, the world has undergone significant changes, including rapid technological innovation in areas such as AI and digital technologies, the rise and economic growth of the Global South, and the emergence and escalation of social challenges accompanying this growth, as well as the intensifying geopolitical competition.

Even in these circumstances, the fundamental principles of FOIP that the Indo-Pacific region, where two oceans (the Indian and Pacific Oceans) and two continents (Asia and Africa) converge, holds the key to the future peace and stability of the international community has remained unchanged. Japan will continue to fulfill its responsibilities in this region to build a free and open international order. We will also work closely with the countries involved in 3SI.

Security in the European-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions are closely intertwined, and cooperation among partners that share fundamental values and principles is increasingly important. This of course includes the 3SI member countries in Central and Eastern Europe and the Baltic region.

Going forward, Japan will continue its efforts across various fields as a "strategic partner" of the 3SI to jointly unlock the potential offered by the Three Seas. I am confident that this meeting will yield fruitful results.