Deputy President Paul Mashatile has concluded his productive working visit to Japan, strengthening South Africa’s longstanding ties with the Asian nation. The visit focused on advancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest as both countries mark 115 years of diplomatic relations in 2025.
South Africa, holding the G20 Presidency, and Japan, set to lead the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD-9) in August, are at the helm of significant global organizations. Mashatile’s visit underlined their shared commitment to shaping the future of multilateral collaboration.
During the visit, Mashatile engaged with senior Japanese officials, including Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi. He expressed gratitude for Japan’s support of South Africa’s G20 presidency and shared his eagerness to collaborate for a successful TICAD-9 summit.
“Since 1993, Japan has been hosting TICAD, which plays a pivotal role in supporting African development through initiatives focused on peace, stability, and growth,” Mashatile said. “South Africa and Africa have a trusted ally in Japan.”
Further strengthening bilateral relations, Mashatile met with the Japan-African Union Parliamentary Friendship League. The discussions centered on the significance of parliamentary diplomacy in enhancing mutual understanding and fostering cooperation.
Mashatile also met with representatives from Japan’s business community, including the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) and the Japan Organisation for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC). These meetings were aimed at boosting trade, investment, and economic ties between South Africa and Japan. Mashatile promoted South Africa as a prime destination for Japanese investments, citing its favorable business environment, skilled workforce, and strategic location.
Addressing concerns about visa backlogs and load shedding, Mashatile assured the Japanese business community that the South African government was committed to tackling these issues to create a safer and more reliable environment for investment.
“I am confident that our discussions will lead to positive outcomes, further solidifying the bond between our nations,” Mashatile stated.
Accompanied by senior South African officials, including the Deputy Minister of International Relations, Thandi Moraka, and Minister of Higher Education, Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane, Mashatile expressed his dedication to making the most of the agreements and discussions from the visit.
