Japan aims to lead the way in 'achieving a decarbonized Asia'

At the "Asia Zero Emission Community" (AZEC) summit hosted by Japan in Tokyo, projects related to reducing carbon emissions within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region were discussed.

In his speech at the summit, Prime Minister Kishida touched upon his country's future-oriented efforts.

Stating that "the zero-carbon goal is a shared challenge," Kishida shared the estimate that 4 quadrillion yen (28 trillion dollars) in financing is required for the decarbonization of Asia.

Kishida said that his country would lead efforts to create a "decarbonization market" that could attract investment to the continent and to "achieve the goal of a decarbonized Asia."

Economic growth and energy security

According to the joint statement issued afterward, it was agreed at the summit to "maintain the goal of decarbonization through diverse and practical paths suitable for each country's circumstances."

Participating countries at the summit reaffirmed their cooperation toward reducing carbon emissions, sustaining economic growth, and ensuring energy security.

The summit, which was attended by ASEAN members Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia, Laos, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Brunei, as well as Australia, did not include Myanmar, which has been under military rule since February 2021, despite being an ASEAN member.

Founded in Bangkok in 1967 and bringing together Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, Myanmar, Malaysia, Laos, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Brunei, ASEAN aims for intergovernmental cooperation and economic diplomacy.