Japan-Niger Relations
Foreign Minister Hayashi’s Courtesy Call on President Bazoum of the Republic of Niger
June 23, 2023
On June 23, commencing at 3:00 p.m. (local time) for approximately 25 minutes, HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who is visiting France for the Summit for a New Financing Pact, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Mohamed BAZOUM, President of the Republic of Niger. The overview of the courtesy call is as follows.
- At the outset, Minister Hayashi stated that Japan is “a partner growing together with Africa” as affirmed at the Eighth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 8), and he would like to further develop the bilateral relations with President Bazoum. In response, President Bazoum stated that Niger is under the threats of terrorists in neighboring countries, among others, and expressed his gratitude for the support of Japan as well as his expectation for further assistance.
- The two sides confirmed that they would work for further development of bilateral relations, including in sectors such as education, climate change and food security, as well as for peace and stability of the Sahel.
- Minister Hayashi expressed his hope to collaborate with the Republic of Niger to end Russia’s aggression as soon as possible and lead the international community in the direction of cooperation, and stated that Japan would contribute to food security in Niger, and President Bazoum expressed his gratitude. The two sides also exchanged views on regional and international issues, such as the importance of transparent and fair development finance, strengthening the functions of the UN including Security Council reform, and dealing with North Korea including the nuclear and missile issues as well as the abductions issue. They concurred on continuing to work closely together to address these issues.