ÉVIAN-LES-BAINS, FRANCE June 15, 2026 — French President Emmanuel Macron extended a warm welcome to Japan’s new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi as she arrived for her first G7 summit, posting a video on X with the Japanese greeting “ようこそ” (“yōkoso” — welcome).
In the short clip shared by Macron, Takaichi, dressed in a light-colored suit, walks onto a stage set against a scenic backdrop of green lawns and trees. She shakes hands with Macron, exchanges a warm hug and cheek kisses with First Lady Brigitte Macron, and stands alongside the couple as they pose together. Large “G7 France Évian 2026” signs are visible in the background.
The 52nd G7 Summit, hosted by France in Évian-les-Bains from June 15–17, brings together leaders from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the European Union. Key agenda items include global security challenges, economic stability, energy security, the situation in the Middle East (particularly the Strait of Hormuz), and ongoing support for Ukraine.
Takaichi, who became Japan’s first female prime minister in October 2025 after leading the Liberal Democratic Party to a strong victory, is attending her inaugural G7 leaders’ meeting. She has prioritized strengthening alliances, energy security, and Indo-Pacific stability amid regional tensions.
Macron and Takaichi have previously met bilaterally, including during Macron’s visit to Tokyo earlier this year, where they reaffirmed the “exceptional partnership” between France and Japan on defense, technology, and global issues.
The summit marks a high-profile debut for Takaichi on the global stage, as Japan navigates its role in a G7 increasingly focused on geopolitical flashpoints. Leaders are expected to issue joint statements on maritime security and economic resilience.
This warm bilateral gesture underscores the deepening Franco-Japanese ties as both nations seek to address shared international priorities.
About The Author
