Japan-Tuvalu Relations
Japan-Tuvalu Leaders Video Teleconference Meeting
June 29, 2021
Japan-Tuvalu Leaders Video Teleconference Meeting(Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office)
On June 29, commencing at 2:30 p.m. for approximately 15 minutes, Mr. SUGA Yoshihide, Prime Minister of Japan, held a Japan-Tuvalu leaders video teleconference meeting with Hon. Kausea NATANO, Prime Minister of Tuvalu, co-chair of the 9th Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting. The overview of the meeting is as follows.
- Prime Minister Suga stated that Pacific Island countries such as Tuvalu are important partners to Japan, and that he would like to strengthen relations between the two countries. He also stated that he would like to continue working closely with Prime Minister Natano toward a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific."
- Prime Minister Suga expressed his intention to continue supporting Tuvalu with measures against COVID-19 and to provide an assistance for the stable supply of electricity in Tuvalu.
- In response, Prime Minister Natano expressed his gratitude for Japan's long-standing support. Both sides concurred on cooperating toward the success of the 9th Pacific Islands Leaders’ Meeting as the co-chairs.
- Prime Minister Suga requested cooperation for the stable operation of Japanese fishing vessels. The two leaders also exchanged views on regional issues, including the response to North Korea. Prime Minister Suga requested understanding and cooperation for the abduction issue, and received support from Prime Minister Natano.
- Prime Minister Suga stated that Japan was taking all possible infection control measures in preparation for hosting the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in a safe and secure manner.