Tuvalu Prime Minister Feleti Teo has invited Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to attend the Pre-COP31 Leaders’ Event in Tuvalu as the two countries reaffirmed their longstanding bilateral relationship.
Prime Minister Teo made the invitation during a courtesy meeting with Japan’s Ambassador to Fiji, with accreditation to Tuvalu, Hiroshi Tajima, in Funafuti on Thursday.
The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and discussions on climate change, regional cooperation, peace and security, and other areas of mutual interest.
Prime Minister Teo said Japan’s participation in the Pre-COP31 Leaders’ Event would provide an important opportunity for direct engagement between Japan and Pacific leaders on climate change, resilience and climate finance, as well as other priorities facing Pacific island countries and Small Island Developing States.
The two sides also discussed opportunities for future cooperation in areas including climate resilience, maritime transport, digital connectivity, renewable energy, health, education, fisheries and community development.
Tuvalu and Japan established diplomatic relations following Tuvalu’s independence in 1978 and have maintained close and friendly ties for decades.
Japan remains an important development partner for Tuvalu, providing support in areas including maritime transport, health, education, infrastructure, energy, fisheries, community development and human resource development.
The Tuvalu Government said it values Japan’s longstanding friendship and continued support for the country’s development and resilience.
