(Press Release: Provisional Translation)
September 18, 2026
Ministry of Defense Japan
1. Courtesy Calls on Deputy Prime Minister Koçiu and Minister of Defense Nufi of Albania
On September 14, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense Wakabayashi paid courtesy calls on Deputy Prime Minister Koçiu and Minister of Defense Nufi of Albania.
During the meetings, recalling the excellent bilateral relations between Japan and Albania, they exchanged views on the regional situation and the future direction of bilateral defense cooperation and exchanges.
2. Working Lunch with Deputy Minister of Defense Abrazhda of Albania
On September 14, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense Wakabayashi held a working lunch with Deputy Minister of Defense Abrazhda.
At the meeting, they discussed regional affairs as well as bilateral defense cooperation and exchanges.
3. Visit to the Albanian Air Force Headquarters
On September 14, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense Wakabayashi visited the Albanian Air Force Headquarters.
During the visit, he received a briefing on the challenges facing the Albanian Air Force and the current status of its cooperation with regional partners.
4. Meeting with Undersecretary of State for Defence Perego di Cremnago of Italy
On September 15, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense Wakabayashi held a meeting with Undersecretary of State for Defence Perego di Cremnago at the Italian Ministry of Defence.
They exchanged views on the security situations in the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions and, taking into account the strong bilateral relationship between Japan and Italy, affirmed their intention to further promote Japan-Italy defense cooperation.
5. Visit to the Fleet Command of Italy
On September 15, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense Wakabayashi visited the Fleet Command (CINCNAV).
He received a briefing on the Italian Navy's operations and an explanation of the current maritime security situation in the Mediterranean, as well as the Navy’s initiatives through NATO and EU frameworks. He also exchanged views on defense cooperation with Japan.
6. Visit to Leonardo S.p.A.
On September 15, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense Wakabayashi visited Leonardo S.p.A., one of Italy's leading defense companies and a participant in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP).
During the visit, he received a briefing on the company's activities and its future business outlook.
