Oceania

On July 11, in Suva, Fiji, Mr. OKUYAMA Jiro, Ambassador in charge of the Pacific Islands Leaders Summit (PALM), held the first ever “Japan-Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) Kizuna Talanoa” with Ms. Desna SOLOFA, Deputy Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF).

Kizuna Talanoa is a senior officials dialogue between Japan and the PIFS aiming at strengthening communication between the two. The launch of the dialogue was confirmed in March this year during the meeting between Mr. IWAYA Takeshi, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, and the Hon. Mr. Baron Devavesi Waqa, Secretary General of the PIF.

During the dialogue, Japan emphasized its policy of consistently and steadily implementing the commitments made at the 10th Pacific Islands Leaders Summit (PALM10) last July for the peace, stability, and prosperity of the region, while placing great importance on regional unity and the role of the PIFS.

Both sides exchanged views on various cooperation projects between Japan and the Pacific Island countries region. The PIFS expressed high appreciation for Japan's efforts in promoting cooperation with Pacific Island countries and extended its gratitude to the people and Government of Japan. Both sides confirmed that they will further strengthen cooperation based on trust and Kizuna (bonds).