As we enter 2026, Canada and Japan stand at a pivotal moment in our partnership. The past year strengthened our friendship and expanded our cooperation, but the year ahead will be defined by how we respond together to a rapidly changing global environment. With geopolitical shifts and technological disruptions reshaping the international landscape our partnership offers stability, creativity and common purpose.

The Indo-Pacific is central to Canada’s future, and Japan, as the world’s fourth-largest economy, is a cornerstone of thisengagement. Bilateral trade already exceeds $36 billion annually, and Japan is Canada’s fourth-largest foreign investor. These figures underscore the scale of our economic relationship, but the real story lies in how we continue to deepen and diversify it.

By working together, Canada and Japan are building a stronger, more resilient partnership that draws on our complementary strengths. Canada’s energy, food and critical minerals will continue to support Japan’s security and affordability goals, while Japan’s investment and industrial expertise will enhance Canada’s clean energy, advanced manufacturing and technology sectors. This collaboration is already shaping resilient supply chains in critical minerals, batteries and advanced technologies, combining Canada’s research depth and clean energy resources with Japan’s formidable industrial base. Looking ahead, energy cooperation will expand further as Canada advances collaboration on hydrogen, nuclear power and carbon-capture technologies, alongside its role as a stable supplier of liquified natural gas (LNG) and liquified petroleum gas (LPG). Together, these efforts will be critical to achieving both countries’ climate and energy transition objectives, ensuring that our partnership not only meets today’s challenges but also creates shared prosperity for the future.

In this dynamic environment, the CCCJ will play an increasingly important role as it moves forward in its second half century. For fifty years since it was founded in 1975, the Chamber has promoted commerce between Canada and Japan, advocated for Canadian business interests and provided a platform for networking, information exchange and policy dialogue. Its presence has ensured that Canadian companies have a trusted partner to navigate Japan’s evolving market, while its ability to connect entrepreneurs, policymakers and industry leaders continues to strengthen the vibrant and resilient Canada-Japan commercial relationship. The CCCJ’s close ties with other Canadian chambers across Asia have also served to broaden and reinforce Canada’s presence in the Indo-Pacific.

As Ambassador, I see first-hand how the CCCJ amplifies Canada’s presence and strengthens our ties to Japan. Through seminars, advocacy and networking events, the Chamber equips Canadian businesses with the tools to succeed and helps Japanese partners understand the opportunities that Canada offers. The CCCJ’s role as a bridge of connectivity, complementing the work of governments helps to ensure that our commercial ties continue to grow.

On the occasion of the CCCJ’s 50th Anniversary, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to its members and friends for their dedication and contribution to strengthening the deep bonds between our two countries. With your continued engagement, Canada and Japan are well positioned to build a future of shared prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.