Japan-Nauru Relations

On May 18, commencing at 6:30 p.m. for approximately 20 minutes, Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, held a summit meeting with H.E. Mr. Baron Divavesi Waqa, President of the Republic of Nauru, who is staying in Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture, to attend the 8th Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM8). The overview of the summit meeting is as follows.

1. Prime Minister Abe welcomed President Waqa to Japan, along with expressing his congratulations on the 50th anniversary of Nauru's independence. In addition, Prime Minister Abe noted that this year is the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Nauru, and explained that he intends to utilize this milestone as an opportunity to strengthen the bilateral relationship. Prime Minister Abe also stated that he hopes to have a fulfilling discussion on the challenges facing the region, including assuring the martime security, capacity building of maritimesafety climate change and disaster prevention, at PALM8 on the following day. Furthermore, Prime Minister Abe announced that Japan intends to provide support for the improvement of Aiwo Harbour through 250 million yen of grant aid, and intends to support Nauru's sustainable development. 
2. In response, President Waqa explained that Aiwo Harbour is a significant project for Nauru and expressed thanks for Japan's support, along with stating that Nauru attaches importance to its amicable relationship with Japan, and strongly supports Japan's position in the international community. 
3. Prime Minister stated that he hopes to collaborate and cooperate with Nauru on the basis of the "Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy," and the two sides agreed that they will continue holding discussions.
4. In addition, Prime Minister Abe asked that consideration be given to stable operations by Japanese fishing vessels and requested cooperation on the prompt resolution of the abductions issue. President Waqa expressed support for Japan's position on North Korea, including the abductions issue.