Japan and SA – G20 Johannesburg Summit and beyond

THE G20 Johannesburg Summit concluded this past Sunday. I would like to express mysincere appreciation to the South African government for the leadership they demonstrated, and to all the local people for their warm hospitality. The first-ever G20 Summit on African soil made a historic moment with remarkable grace and pride.

- AMBASSODOR SHIMIZI FUMIO

TO ATTEND this landmark meeting, Japanese Prime Minister TAKAICHI Sanae travelled from the other side of the globe, which demonstrates how strongly Japan values the Japan-South Africa relationship and the G20 as a forum for advancing international cooperation. I Supplied

To attend this landmark meeting, Japanese Prime Minister TAKAICHI Sanae travelled from the other side of the globe, which demonstrates how strongly Japan values the Japan-South Africa relationship and the G20 as a forum for advancing international cooperation.

As Prime Minister TAKAICHI emphasised, amidst the multiple crises the international community is facing, now is the time for the members of the G20 to address challenges and to build global governance in a way that all members share responsibility. In this regard, I welcome the substantive discussions at this Leaders' Summit to address global issues such as disaster resilience, debt sustainability for low-income countries, critical minerals, and AI.

Prime Minister TAKAICHI's visit also reflects Japan's deep commitment to cooperation with Africa. Japan has cultivated a longstanding partnership with Africa, inspired by the continent's vibrancy and immense potential. Our engagement is centered around the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD), founded on two core principles: African ownership and genuine partnership with the international community.