Japan signs public sector digital collaboration deal with UK

The Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), Nadine Dorries, and Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan, Yasushi Kaneko, have reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening UK-Japan collaboration on digital and data in the following joint statement:

The UK and Japan are natural partners that share the same fundamental values on digital and data. We both believe in the power of the free market and the importance of Data Free Flow with Trust. We are inherently optimistic about the opportunities that digital technologies offer to our citizens, businesses, and societies, whilst being clear on the risks and the need to protect people and industries from harm.

We will convene a UK-Japan Digital Group this year, with representatives from all relevant departments and Ministries, to deepen digital cooperation between the UK and Japan. This will cover all facets of our joint digital priorities, including digital infrastructure, data, digital regulation and standards as well as digital transformation. This will strengthen our tech sectors and revitalise our local communities through digital transformation.

The Ministry for Internal Affairs and Communication, Digital Agency and Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry will be the main contributors from the Government of Japan. ‘The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and the Government Digital Service will be the main contributors from the UK Government. The Digital Group meeting will be held annually, led by senior officials and coordinated by DCMS and MIC. Development of this cooperation will also include high-level and working group meetings as necessary.