Japan, Australia agree to deal with whaling row scientifically

February 1, 2008

TOKYO — The Japanese and Australian foreign ministers agreed Thursday to continue to deal with their dispute over Japan's whaling activities through "scientific discussions" and that recent clashes between activists and the whalers should not affect overall friendly bilateral relations.

Australian Foreign Minister Stephen Smith was quoted by Japanese officials as saying that one must "disassociate" the actions of the anti-whaling activists from the Australian government's stance, while reiterating Canberra and the Australian public's opposition to Japan's so-called "scientific research whaling" activities.

Meanwhile, Japanese Foreign Minister Masahiko Komura repeated that the boarding of a Japanese whaling vessel by two Sea Shepherd Conservation Society members was "unacceptable" and requested that legal action in accordance with Australian law be taken if the activists' boat calls at an Australian port.

The two ministers also discussed other issues including stepping up a strategic partnership both bilaterally and trilaterally with the United States, pushing forward negotiations to conclude a free trade agreement and joining hands in tackling climate change, the ministry officials said.


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