On 7 May 2014, JBCE, together with BUSINESSEUROPE, organized a high-level meeting between H.E. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, and European and Japanese business leaders. The meeting was chaired by JBCE President Paul Molyneux. Top executives from leading European and Japanese companies highlighted the importance for Japan and Europe of deepening bilateral cooperation and stressed their expectations for the swift and successful conclusion of the EU-Japan FTA/EPA. Being recognized by Prime Minister Abe as playing an important “bridging role between the industries of Japan and Europe”, JBCE will stay committed to achieving its ultimate objective of strengthening the EU-Japan relationship.