Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, Eri Arfiya, attended a symposium in Tokyo on March 18, focusing on South Africa’s G20 presidency and its theme of solidarity, equality, and sustainability. The event, co-hosted by the United Nations University and the South African Embassy in Japan, featured Deputy President Paul Mashatile and other high-level officials.
Delivering remarks on behalf of Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Eri welcomed Mashatile and his delegation, acknowledging 115 years of diplomatic ties between the two nations. She stressed the growing importance of collaboration between Japan and South Africa in tackling global challenges, particularly climate change.
Eri reaffirmed Japan’s support for South Africa’s G20 priorities and emphasized cooperation on key issues such as disaster risk reduction, critical minerals, and debt management. She also highlighted Japan’s commitment to working with G20 members to develop practical solutions in these areas.
Looking ahead to the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) in August, Eri outlined Japan’s intention to strengthen partnerships with African nations and channel the conference’s outcomes toward meaningful contributions at the upcoming G20 Summit in Johannesburg.
