In a series of high-level meetings held on August 19, Mr. Akihiko Tanaka, President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), engaged with key African leaders and international officials to deepen collaboration and reaffirm Japan’s commitment to Africa’s sustainable development.
Among the prominent leaders received by Mr. Tanaka was H.E. Mr. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, President of the Republic of Liberia.
The two discussed JICA’s past support in Liberia’s development journey and explored future cooperation aligned with Liberia’s national development plan.
President Boakai welcomed JICA’s continued involvement, emphasizing the need for infrastructure development, human resource capacity building, and social service delivery.
Also in attendance was Mr. Ian Saunders, Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO).
The dialogue centered on enhancing customs-related collaboration, with a strong emphasis on improving trade facilitation and capacity building across African nations.
Mr. Tanaka also met with H.E. Mr. Abdullah ALLAFI, Vice President of the Presidential Council of Libya.
Their talks focused on promoting stability and sustainable development in Libya and the broader region, particularly in the areas of governance, reconstruction, and institutional capacity.
Additionally, H.E. Ms. Sarra Zaafrani, Prime Minister of the Republic of Tunisia, discussed with the JICA President the current prospects and challenges in advancing bilateral cooperation.
Both sides reaffirmed their shared interest in tackling youth unemployment, boosting innovation, and supporting climate-resilient development.
JICA reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with African nations and international organizations to achieve inclusive growth and sustainable development across the continent.
“Partnership is the key to progress,” said Mr. Tanaka. “JICA remains dedicated to walking alongside Africa on its path to prosperity.”
These meetings reflect Japan’s broader strategy to deepen ties with Africa, support national development priorities, and contribute to peace and stability through international cooperation.
