Suva, 13 February 2024 (TDI): On February 12, 2024, Japan-Papua’s relations strengthened with the 5th Ministerial Interim Meeting of the Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM), held between KAMIKAWA Yoko and Justin W. TKATCHENKO in Suva, Fiji.
Minister Kamikawa, the Japanese Minister of Foreign Affairs, congratulated Minister Tkatchenko, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, on his reappointment.
She expressed hope to strengthen “Kizuna” and collaborate based on shared ideals for their upcoming 50th anniversary.
They held the meeting for the 5th Ministerial Interim Meeting of the Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM). The meeting was over in about twenty-five minutes.
Strengthening Japan-Papua relations
The 5th PALM meeting strengthened Japan-Papua New Guinea relations. Minister Kamikawa and Minister Tkatchenko emphasized the importance of the Nadzab Tomodachi International Airport.
He claimed that it represented the two nations’ cordial relationship and Japan’s efforts to promote sustainable development in the area.
Tkatchenko also emphasized the unique Japan-Papua New Guinea relations, stating his commitment to deepening it further.
Minister Kamikawa stressed the need to maintain and strengthen a free and open international order. Additionally, the ministers had an open discussion about regional issues, especially security-related ones.
Moreover, Minister Kamikawa expressed profound appreciation for Papua New Guinea’s cooperation. He understood the release of the Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS)-treated water into the ocean.
Minister Tkatchenko expressed once more how much Japan’s answer was transparent. In advance of Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM) 10, which is slated for later this year, the two ministers decided to strengthen their cooperation.
Minister Kamikawa delivered a box covered with Kanazawa gold leaf, expressing thanks for Prime Minister Marape’s sympathies and sorrow for the Noto Peninsula earthquake.
