Japan-Guatemala Relations
Courtesy call by Minister Motegi on President Giammattei
July 15, 2021
On July 15, commencing at 6:20 p.m. (local time; July 16, 9:20 a.m. JST) for approximately 50 minutes, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who is visiting the Republic of Guatemala, paid a courtesy call to the H.E. Dr. Alejandro Eduardo Giammattei Falla, President of the Republic of Guatemala. The overview of the meeting is as follows.
- At the outset, Minister Motegi congratulated Guatemala on the bicentennial of its independence. He stated that Japan and Guatemala are traditionally friendly countries that share fundamental values, and that he hoped to strengthen their cooperative relationship with this first visit to the country by a Japanese Foreign Minister in 34 years. President Giammattei extended a heartfelt welcome to Minister Motegi, stating that he would like to expand this good relationship between the two countries who share common values.
- Minister Motegi stated that he hoped to make the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics a safe and secure event, as it provides an opportunity to strengthen global ties as the world fights to overcome COVID-19. President Giammattei expressed his hope for a successful Tokyo Games.
- Minister Motegi explained Japan's effort to provide vaccines in the international community and medical equipment to Guatemala, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in responding to COVID-19. President Giammattei expressed his gratitude for Japan's contribution, stating that securing vaccines is a critical issue in his country.
- Minister Motegi reiterated his condolences for the damage caused by hurricanes in November last year. He stated that he would consider support for disaster prevention efforts based on Japan’s own experience with typhoons and volcanoes. Minister Motegi also expressed his intention to cooperate in addressing the root causes of migration to the U.S., such as poverty and security issues. President Giammattei expressed his gratitude to for Japanese assistance in this regard.
- Minister Motegi introduced Japan’s efforts to achieve a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)” and called for cooperation to maintain and strengthen a free and open international order based on the rule of law, which gained Guatemala’s support. Minister Motegi and President Giammattei exchanged views on regional situations, including North Korea and the East and South China Seas. Minister Motegi asked for understanding and cooperation for the immediate resolution of the abduction issue and received strong support from President Giammattei. They also discussed cooperation in the international arena and shared the view to continue working together.