Japan and Germany become 'premium partners', but clash over car protection

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz meet in Tokyo, discussing closer cooperation while expressing concerns over EU protectionism affecting Japanese car manufacturers. Germany's push for subsidies favoring local electric vehicles raises alarms in Japan, as it could disadvantage their automotive industry. Toyota's CEO directly appeals to Merz for equal treatment of Japanese cars, highlighting the competitive pressures from China. Both nations aim to strengthen ties against external economic challenges, including forming a global alliance of middle powers. However, potential EU measures could strain their partnership if Japan's automotive sector suffers.