The Taoiseach will hold talks with Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi in Toyko today aimed at improving trade between the two countries.
Mr Ahern is in Japan for the EU-Japan summit in his role as the President of the European Council.
Trade with Japan is important to the Republic with exports to the region of €2.13 billion there in 2003. Information technology and chemical materials are the primary export products.
Developing closer economic links between Ireland and Japan is part of the Asia Strategy, a programme which involves Government Departments, State Agencies and economic groups such as IBEC and the Chambers of Commerce.
It is expected that the Taoiseach will propose a Working Holiday Scheme for young Japanese similar to programmes the State runs with Australia, New Zealand and Canada.
