Japan-Niue Relations

On May 19, commencing at 4:25 p.m. for approximately 10 minutes, Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, received a courtesy call from Hon. Pokotoa Lalotoa Sipeli, Acting Premier and Minister of Infrastructure of Niue, who is staying in Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture to attend the Eighth Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM8). The overview of the courtesy call is as follows.

1. Prime Minister Abe welcomed the visit to Japan by Acting Premier Sipeli. The Prime Minister stated that at PALM8, which was held a short while earlier, extensive discussions took place regarding the issues facing the region, including maritime security, capacity building of maritime safety, climate change, and disaster prevention. In addition, the Prime Minister announced the Government of Japan's intention to provide financial cooperation of 100 million yen, such as for developing infrastructure that is strong against natural disasters.
2. Acting Premier Sipeli expressed appreciation for Japan's assistance, including grant assistance for grass roots human security project.
3. Prime Minister Abe stated that Japan will coordinate and cooperate with Niue based on the "Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy," and the leaders agreed that the two countries would continue to hold relevant discussions.
4. Prime Minister Abe requested the cooperation of Acting Premier Sipeli for the early resolution of the abductions issue. In addition, the two leaders exchanged views on challenges and cooperation in the international community, such as in the area of climate change, and on regional affairs, including North Korea.