13/05/2026
Held in Perth, the 2026 Nikkei Asia Forum brought together business leaders, policymakers and academics from Japan and Australia to explore shared priorities including energy security, trade resilience and defence.
Opening the forum, Toshiaki Kitamura, Vice Chairman, JABCC and INPEX Former Chairman & President CEO, underscored the enduring strength of the Australia–Japan energy partnership, noting that resilient and trusted relationships have never been more critical amid global supply chain disruption.
Reinforcing the importance of the bilateral relationship, Hitoshi Okawa, INPEX Representative Director and Senior Executive Vice President, reflected on INPEX’s journey in Australia and the development of Ichthys LNG. Trust was a cornerstone of his address - foundational to the Australia Japan relationship, the formation of the team that would go onto deliver one of the world's most significant energy projects, the support of Aboriginal communities, and the policy stability that enabled long‑term investment.
Looking to the future, Mr Okawa then addressed the realities of the energy transition, noting the continued vital role of LNG alongside decarbonisation through proven technologies such as carbon capture and storage. He concluded with advice to the next generation - that important work is never easy, and it is by embracing challenge that ideals become reality.
Tetsu Murayama, INPEX Managing Director, Country Chair Australia shared that continued, responsible development of energy resources can coexist with climate ambition, support jobs and regional communities and maintain Australia’s standing as a trusted partner in the region.
Meaningful engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities is an important responsibility for companies operating in Australia.
Reflecting the strong interest in this area, the ‘Unlocking First Nations business opportunities in defence and energy’ panel welcomed Yuko Tokunaga, INPEX Manager Corporate Social Responsibility, to share her insights from INPEX’s reconciliation journey across Western Australia and the Northern Territory, which began in 2013.
Yuko also highlighted the strong cultural parallels between Japanese and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, including a deep connection to land, spirituality, and the importance of mutual respect.
INPEX was proud to sponsor this event, reinforcing the importance of the long-standing friendship between Australia and Japan.
