Asia-Arctic Cooperation and the next phase in Japan´s Arctic engagement

Over a decade has passed since Japan, along with four other Asian countries, was granted permanent observer status in the Arctic Council in 2013. Since then, Japan has actively contributed to Arctic scientific research and strengthened its collaboration with Arctic states. Now, in 2025, Japan is advancing into the next phase of Arctic science and diplomacy. Given the current geopolitical situation, Japan's Arctic cooperation—with both other Asian states and its partners in the Arctic—is probably more important than ever.