On August 28, Mr. HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who is visiting Tunisia to attend the 8th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 8), held a meeting with Sierra Leone’s Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Prof. David John Francis.
At the outset of the meeting, Minister Hayashi expressed his gratitude to Minister Francis for his participation to TICAD 8.
He stated that Japan supports development efforts in areas such as health and agriculture, as well as electric power infrastructure, which are the cornerstone of economic development. He also requested continued support for Japanese companies’ business development in Sierra Leone.
In response, Minister Francis expressed his condolences to former Prime Minister Abe.
Minister Francis recognized Japan’s actions through TICAD to date, expressed his appreciation for Japan’s extensive support, including for food and health sectors, and stated that he welcomed the initiatives expressed by Prime Minister Kishida at TICAD 8, especially the investment in “people”. Both sides then confirmed to cooperate further in the international arena.
Minister Hayashi then stated that it is essential for the international community to cooperate in its response to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, and that Japan intends to continue contributing to strengthening food security in Africa. Minister Francis stated that the vulnerability of Sierra Leone is evident, and that his country supports Japan’s contributions. Minister Hayashi also raised the importance of transparency and fairness of development finance and the two sides confirmed to cooperate with each other.
The two sides shared the view to continue to work together in responding to regional and international issues, such as North Korea, including on the nuclear, missile, and abductions issues and strengthening of the functions of the United Nations as a whole, including the Security Council reform. They also confirmed to coordinate to maintain and strengthen the NPT regime following the recent NPT Review Conference.
Source: https://www.mofa.go.jp/af/af1/sl/page1e_000471.html