Pretoria, January 13, 2025 – Ambassador Shimizu Fumio officially presented copies of his credentials to Mr Clayson Monyela, Acting Director of State Protocol, at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in South Africa. With the submission of his Letters of Credence, Ambassador Shimizu officially begins his role as Japan’s Head of Mission to South Africa and Lesotho.
In his message, Ambassador Shimizu expressed deep honor at being appointed Japan’s Ambassador to the two countries. Having arrived in Pretoria on December 31, 2024, he highlighted South Africa’s remarkable journey from its turbulent past to its present identity as the “Rainbow Nation.” He commended the country’s ongoing efforts to promote unity following the formation of the Government of National Unity after the 2024 general elections.
The ambassador acknowledged South Africa’s vast potential, not only in its abundant natural resources but also in its human capital, which he sees as key to the country’s growth. He reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to deepening cooperation with South Africa, particularly in areas such as economics, science, technology, culture, and academic exchanges. Additionally, he stressed the importance of joint efforts to address global challenges like climate change, especially with South Africa holding the G20 presidency.
Ambassador Shimizu also touched on Japan’s long-standing relationship with Lesotho, celebrating the kingdom’s 200th anniversary in 2024. Japan’s support for Lesotho’s development spans education, healthcare, infrastructure, and humanitarian aid. He recalled the visits of Lesotho’s King and Prime Minister to Japan, including significant milestones such as the King’s visit to the earthquake-affected Fukushima Prefecture and the Prime Minister’s participation in the TICAD summit and the state funeral of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
Looking forward, Ambassador Shimizu expressed his determination to strengthen bilateral relations and to use upcoming opportunities, including the TICAD 9 summit in Japan in August 2025, to further Japan’s cooperation with South Africa, Lesotho, and the African continent.
