Ex-Japan PM urges tech collaboration with China

Former Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama has called for enhanced technological collaboration between Japan and China, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. Speaking at the Shanghai Forum 2025, Hatoyama emphasized the complementary strengths of the two nations, with Japan excelling in precision and fundamental materials, and China demonstrating robust organizational capabilities and industrial achievements. He highlighted China’s rapid advancements in AI and robotics, noting that the country has achieved a world-leading position in these fields. Hatoyama also pointed out the potential for mutual benefits through a macro-micro partnership, leveraging each country’s unique advantages. He stressed the importance of adhering to historical agreements in Sino-Japanese relations and called for a reconsideration of Japan’s strategic alignment with the United States. Hatoyama proposed the establishment of a mechanism to regulate competition between China and the U.S. in technology fields, advocating for collaborative efforts involving Japan, South Korea, and European countries. The forum, themed ‘Age of innovation: Technology, development and governance,’ brought together over 500 participants from more than 50 countries and regions, fostering discussions on global technological advancements and governance.