Japan-Madagascar Relations
Foreign Minister Hayashi’s Courtesy Call on President Rajoelina of Madagascar
June 23, 2023
On June 23, commencing at 0: 45 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. Andry Nirina RAJOELINA, President of the Republic of Madagascar. The overview of the courtesy call is as follows.
- At the outset, Minister Hayashi told that he was happy to meet with President Rajoelina again following the meeting on TICAD 8 last August and expressed his hope for the presidential election scheduled for later this year to be conducted freely, fairly and democratically. Minister Hayashi also said that he would continue to cooperate with Madagascar, which has a nickel and cobalt production project, Japan’s largest investment in Africa, especially for its stable management. In response, President Rajoelina expressed his hope to further expand this project and develop related infrastructure including Toamasina Port.
- Minister Hayashi expressed his hope to collaborate with Madagascar to end Russia’s aggression against Ukraine as soon as possible and lead the international community in the direction of cooperation, and stated that Japan would contribute to food security in Madagascar. In response, President Rajoelina stated that he shares Japan’s view, condemning in particular the damage being done to civilians and children, and that he believes this war, having a negative impact on the world, should be brought to an end as soon as possible. President Rajoelina also expressed his gratitude toward Japanese aid and expressed his hope to accelerate cooperation by utilizing Japanese expertise and technology.
- The two sides also exchanged views on the importance of transparent and fair development finance, strengthening the functions of the UN including Security Council reform, regional situation in East Asia and other issues, such as on dealing with North Korea including the nuclear and missile issues as well as the abductions issue. They concurred to continue working closely together to address these issues.