Visit to Japan by H.E. Mr. Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the United Nations

May 8, 2006

Mr. Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the United Nations, accompanied by Mrs. Annan, will visit Japan from May 16 (Tue) to 19 (Fri) as Guests of the Minister for Foreign Affairs.
During his stay in Japan, Secretary-General Annan will have talks with Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, Chief Cabinet Secretary Shinzo Abe, and Foreign Minister Taro Aso, to exchange views on various international issues including UN Security Council reform.
On May 18 (Thu), Secretary-General Annan will give a lecture on Japan's contribution to the United Nations at the Yasuda Auditorium of the University of Tokyo, on the occasion of receiving an honorary doctorate from the university.
Secretary-General Annan's visit is expected to contribute to deeper understanding by the UN of the fact that Japan, which in 2006 celebrates the 50th year of its accession to the UN, has steadily built up international cooperation through the UN, and will continue to respect and attach importance on the UN in conducting its diplomacy. The Government of Japan also hopes that this visit will further advance cooperative relations between Japan and the UN.

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