Sao tome: Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Mr. ONISHI Yohei, embarked on a significant diplomatic mission to the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe from September 1 to September 6, participating in the Presidential Inauguration Ceremony of President Carlos Manuel Vila Nova.
According to African Press Organization, Mr. ONISHI attended the inauguration on September 3 in the capital, Sao Tome, and joined a subsequent luncheon hosted by the newly inaugurated President and the First Lady. The visit marked a historic occasion as Mr. ONISHI was the first Japanese government official at the ministerial level to visit the nation.
On September 4, Mr. ONISHI paid a courtesy call on President Vila Nova, presenting a letter from Japan's Prime Minister, Ms. TAKAICHI Sanae, and congratulating the President on his reelection. The meeting also celebrated the 50th anniversary of Sao Tome and Principe's independence and the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. President Vila Nova expressed appreciation for Japan's ongoing support and shared his desire to strengthen bilateral ties further.
During the visit, Mr. ONISHI also engaged in informal talks with Prime Minister Americo dOliveira dos Ramos and Minister Nilda Borges da Mata on September 3. These discussions emphasized the importance of deepening relations in various fields. On September 4, Mr. ONISHI met with Ilza Maria dos Santos Amado Vaz, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Communities, reiterating Japan's commitment to fostering collaborative efforts over the next 50 years.
Additionally, Mr. ONISHI held a meeting with Manuel Augusto Lima Amante da Rosa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Community, and Defense of Cabo Verde, discussing ways to enhance bilateral relations. Informal talks were also conducted with high-level officials, including the President of Gabon, the Prime Minister of Portugal, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Angola, highlighting Japan's active engagement with African nations.
