JAKARTA -- Japan is seriously considering upgrading its relations with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, Masahiko Kiya, Japan's ambassador to ASEAN, told Nikkei Asia, indicating Tokyo's eagerness to catch up with China and the U.S. by achieving the same diplomatic status with the regional bloc.
Interview
Japan weighs upgrade of ASEAN ties, following China, U.S.
Tokyo can offer 'high-quality' infrastructure, human resources: envoy
Masahiko Kiya, Japan's ambassador to ASEAN, speaks to Nikkei Asia in Jakarta about a "milestone" year for ties between Japan and the Southeast Asian bloc. (Souce photos by Nana Shibata and Ken Kobayashi)
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