Japan-Djibouti Relations
Japan-Djibouti Summit Meeting
August 29, 2019
On August 29, for about 15 minutes, from 10:25 am, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held a summit meeting with H.E. Mr. Ismail Omar Guelleh, President of the Republic of Djibouti, in Yokohama, Japan. The overview of the meeting is as follows. President Guelleh is visiting Japan to participate in the Seventh Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD7) held from August 28 to 30.
- At the outset, Prime Minister Abe stated, “I thank you for your consecutive attendances to TICAD, since TICADIII. We aspire for your country to play a critical role in regional economic development as home to an important port in the region. The Republic of Djibouti acts as an important gateway for Japan to Africa.” In response, President Guelleh expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome, and also extended his gratitude for efforts made by Japan’s Self-Defense Forces to combat piracy and build regional security. Also, President Guelleh stated his appreciation for Japan’s assistance in the fields of infrastructure and education.
- Following that, Prime Minister Abe mentioned to hold a Special Conference on Promoting of Cooperation in the Western Indian Ocean, and stated Japan’s intention to promote a blue economy and support strengthening connectivity in order to develop the Indian Ocean free and open. Prime Minister Abe also requested continued support for Japan’s Self-Defense Forces. Furthermore, Prime Minister Abe said Japan would support the Republic of Djibouti’s measures to ensure debt sustainability. In response, President Guelleh said the region will require a range of assistance toward stability in the Horn of Arica, and also emphasized the importance of counter piracy measures and enhancing connectivity. Both leaders shared views to deepen cooperation between the two countries.
- The two leaders also exchanged views regarding cooperation in the international arena, including UN Security Council reform, and the North Korea situation.