The New Ambassador of Japan, Her Excellency Ms. Keiko Yanai, presented her Letter of Credence to President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih at a ceremony held this morning at the President’s Office.
At the ceremony, the President congratulated Her Excellency on her ambassadorial appointment, and expressed confidence that the friendly relations that has marked bilateral ties between the Maldives and Japan will continue to prosper during her tenure.
During the Call, the President conveyed his appreciation for the continuous support and assistance provided to the people of the Maldives by the Government of Japan, emphasizing in particular the assistance offered to the Maldives in building schools and the outer sea wall which protects Male’ City.
The President noted that his administration is looking forward to further cooperation with Japan with regard to the Maldives’ economic development, focusing on areas such as infrastructural development, clean energy and disaster risk management.
Furthermore, The President expressed his sincere gratitude for Japan’s stated intention to use the G20 summit to be held in Osaka 2019, as a platform to promote action on climate change. He further noted his appreciation for Japan’s ‘renewable energy diplomacy’, which commits Japan to solving global energy issues. Moreover, The President iterated that the Maldives will continue to engage with Japan on climate change matters on an international level, particularly within the context of the UNFCC.
Speaking during the call, Ambassador Yanai expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the warm and traditional welcome she received when she visited Maldives and conveyed warm sentiments to the President on behalf of the Japanese Emperor and Empress. The Ambassador also emphasized that the two countries share common views on several matters, especially with pertinence to international issues.
During the Call the Japanese Ambassador noted that last year marked the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between both countries and stated her determination to fulfill her mission by further strengthening already strong relations.
