Press Releases

On April 15, commencing at around 5:00 p.m. for approximately 20 minutes, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a telephone talk with the Rt Hon Anne-Marie Trevelyan MP, Secretary of State for International Development of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, upon request from the UK side. The overview of the talk is as follows. 
 

1. Minister Motegi stated, “I am pleased to hear that Prime Minister Johnson has been discharged from hospital. I pray for his speedy and full recovery, and his return to lead the fight against COVID-19.” In reply, International Development Secretary Trevelyan expressed her gratitude for the kind words.


2. The two Ministers exchanged views on support for developing countries in response to COVID-19. Minister Motegi explained Japan’s efforts: assistance to meet the urgent need of the international community, including capacity building and provision of supplies in the healthcare and medical field, and development and distribution of medicine and vaccines; and support for ASEAN which Prime Minister Abe announced at the Special ASEAN Plus Three (APT) Summit on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) via videoconference. In response, International Development Secretary Trevelyan explained the steps the UK has taken.


3. The two Ministers confirmed that while specific support such as face masks tends to be highlighted in the short term, it is necessary to take comprehensive measures in the mid- to long-term, including economic measures and support for developing countries to respond to the coronavirus, as well as to ensure efficient coordination with international organizations.


4. Furthermore, the two Ministers confirmed that Japan and the UK will work together more closely, including towards follow-up work for the G7 Foreign Minister’s Meeting.