Japan and the United Arab Emirates have agreed to advance discussions on energy cooperation, including expanding joint crude oil stockpiles in Japan and increasing UAE crude supplies. The details of the additional stockpiles and UAE supplies will be discussed later. Japan's Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Ryosei Akazawa recently visited Saudi Arabia and UAE for talks on strengthening energy security and stable supplies. He proposed expanding stable crude and product supplies, replenishing and boosting joint reserves in Japan as well as oil stockpines across Asia. The ministers agreed on all proposals and reaffirmed closer ties to strengthen energy resilience.