Press Releases
Signing and Exchange of Notes concerning Japan’s Provision of a Water and Sewage System Maintenance Equipment (Pumps, Crane Trucks, etc.) to Guatemala (Grant Aid “the Economic and Social Development Programme” )
May 22, 2024
On May 22, in Tokyo, following Japan-Guatemala Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Ms. KAMIKAWA Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan and H.E. Mr. Carlos Ramiro MARTÍNEZ ALVARADO, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Guatemala, signed and exchanged notes concerning Japan’s grant aid of 440 million for “the Economic and Social Development Programme.” This grant aid will be provided as part of Japan’s promotion of the “Diplomatic Initiative toward Latin America and the Caribbean ” with Guatemala, on which the two countries confirmed to enhance cooperation at the Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
- In Guatemala City, the capital of Guatemala, aging and insufficient equipment have led to water contamination and sediment accumulation in wells, which are the primary source of water for daily use. Consequently, particularly impoverished areas have had difficulties maintaining water supply capacity and water quality, including securing sufficient water for the growing population.
- In addition, the drainage systems in the city have not been adequately maintained due to the breakdown of cleaning vehicles. During the rainy season, this has caused road flooding, traffic congestion, and a deteriorating sanitation environment.
- In light of this situation, this programme is designed to help improve the water supply and sanitation conditions in the metropolitan area of Guatemala by providing water and sewage system maintenance equipment (pumps, crane trucks, etc.). Additionally, this programme will promote social development targeting basic needs in areas with a large impoverished and indigenous population. This is expected to encourage sustainable and inclusive growth in Guatemala and contribute to addressing the root causes of irregular migration issues.