Japan-Guatemala Relations

Prime Minister Ishiba welcomed President Arévalo’s first visit to Japan on the occasion of the 90th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries and the Japan-SICA (Central American Integration System) Friendship Year and expressed his hope that the Osaka-Kansai Expo would provide an opportunity to showcase the appeal of Guatemala. Prime Minister Ishiba also expressed his gratitude to President Arévalo for supporting the “Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP),” which Japan has been leading, and stated that Japan intends to continue to work with Guatemala, which upholds values and principles, and further strengthen bilateral relations.

In response, President Arévalo expressed gratitude for the warm welcome extended by Prime Minister Ishiba and the Japanese side during his visit. Furthermore, President Arévalo welcomed the deepening of the cooperative relationship between the two countries in various fields and expressed his expectation for the further development of the relations between the two countries and their peoples through the opportunities of the 90th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the Osaka-Kansai Expo.

1. The two leaders confirmed that cooperation among like-minded countries is more important than ever under the current tense international situation, and concurred to newly elevate Japan-Guatemala relations to a “Strategic Partnership” toward maintaining and strengthening a free and open international order based on the rule of law.
2. From the perspective of strengthening economic relations, Prime Minister Ishiba expressed his expectation for the continued improvement of the investment climate, including the enhancement of security and legal stability, to promote investment by Japanese companies. Prime Minister Ishiba also stated that Japan plans to newly implement grant assistance to support agricultural development by women in areas from which migration is occurring.
3. President Arévalo expressed his expectation for greater investment by Japanese companies, and explained the need for infrastructure development, which is a priority of the current administration, and the potential for geothermal power generation, expressing interest in the involvement of Japanese companies with experience and expertise. President Arévalo also expressed gratitude for Japan’s long-standing development cooperation in a wide range of fields, including infrastructure and health.

1. The two leaders exchanged views on the international situation and concurred to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries under the Strategic Partnership to contribute to the peace and stability of the international community.
2. The two leaders also exchanged views on the situation in East Asia such as their policies toward North Korea including the abductions issue. Prime Minister　Ishiba asked for President Arévalo's continued understanding and cooperation for the immediate resolution of the abductions issue.

1. The two leaders signed the Japan-Guatemala Joint Statement and concurred to elevate bilateral relations to a “Strategic Partnership.”
2. Following the document signing, the two leaders held a joint press announcement.