ASEAN-G7 Next Leaders Forum Begins: 60 Young Justice Ministry Officials from 17 Countries Discuss International Issues

26 June 2024 -

An international conference where young legal professionals from 17 countries, including ASEAN and G7, discuss common issues in the legal and judicial fields has commenced. The conference, titled “ASEAN-G7 Next Leaders Forum,” is attended by approximately 60 young legal professionals from 17 countries, including ASEAN and G7, as well as Ministry of Justice officials.

For seven days until the 2nd of next month, participants will present and exchange opinions on their countries’ issues and improvement measures in the legal and judicial fields, and will also visit the Supreme Court and a rehabilitation facility in Tokyo.

“We have once again recognized the importance of resolving disputes fairly based on law and rules, rather than by force or intimidation,” said Minister of Justice Ryu Koizumi during his speech in the first day of the conference. “I hope that you will build horizontal connections that go beyond the frameworks of ASEAN and G7 and consult with each other when you face challenges.”

Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Community and Corporate Affairs, Nararya Soeprapto also said, “Continuous meetings are necessary. I would like to properly understand Japan’s legal system as well.”

The forum was established at a meeting of justice ministers from ASEAN and G7 countries in July last year, which stated that “continuous dialogue is needed to strengthen the rule of law in the international community.”

The 1st ASEAN-G7 Next Leaders Forum is supported by the Government of Japan through Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).