Fiji and Japan’s bilateral relations will be enhanced through the official visit of the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs, Taro Kono.

Minister Kono will arrive into the country on Sunday.

During his first visit to Fiji, the Minister will meet with Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.

Fiji’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security, Inia Seruiratu and Minister Kono will also hold bilateral discussions.

As part of his visit, Minister Kono is also expected to visit the University of the South Pacific and the Pacific Island Forum Secretariat.

Fiji and Japan have been enjoying friendly relations since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1970.

Japan’s commitment is seen through the official development assistance specifically through projects that have benefited Fijians.

The Japanese Government through the grassroot and community development sector has invested over $50 million in grant aid bilateral assistance to Fiji for the coordination of well over 400 community projects since 1990.

Japan has also reached out to Fiji through the disaster recovery sector and has assisted Fiji in the re-building and rehabilitation of schools damaged by severe Tropical Cyclone Winston.

With the hosting of international sporting events namely, the 2019 Rugby World Cup and 2020 Olympics Games in Japan, the Fiji Embassy in Tokyo is working collaboratively with relevant agencies to advance Fiji’s interests through sports diplomacy.