Prime Minister Kishida, who was visiting Africa, left Mozambique, the last country he visited in Africa, in the early morning of May 5, Japan time, and was on his way back to Japan. On the way, I will stop in Singapore and hold a meeting with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
Ahead of the G7 Hiroshima Summit to be held this month, Prime Minister Kishida visited four African countries, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, and Mozambique, from March 29, where he held summit meetings.
During the series of meetings, Prime Minister Kishida exchanged views on issues facing each country, such as food crises and energy issues, and emphasized his intention to reflect them in discussions at the Summit.
In light of the situation in Ukraine and other factors, the two ministers confirmed the importance of an international order based on the rule of law, and shared the view that they would work together toward the realization of a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific."
At a press conference on the evening of June 4, Prime Japan Minister Kishida stated, "At the Summit, I would like to hear the voices of the countries I have visited and lead discussions on actively cooperating in resolving issues as the G4," and expressed his determination to strengthen cooperation with emerging and developing countries known as the "Global South," including the countries he visited this time.
After completing his trip to Africa, Prime Minister Kishida departed Mozambique on a government plane shortly after 7 a.m. on May 5, Japan time, and was on his way back to Japan.
On the way, I will stop in Singapore to refuel and meet with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong over lunch at the airport, and I would like to strengthen cooperation between the two countries, bearing in mind that this year marks 50 years of exchanges between Japan and ASEAN = Association of Southeast Asian Nations.