Sao tome: Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, ONISHI Yohei, visited the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe from September 1 to September 6. His visit was primarily to attend the Presidential Inauguration Ceremony of H.E. Mr. Carlos Manuel Vila Nova, which took place on September 3 in the capital city, Sao Tome. Following the ceremony, he participated in a luncheon hosted by the newly inaugurated President and the First Lady.
According to African Press Organization, on September 4, ONISHI met with President Vila Nova during a courtesy call. During this meeting, ONISHI presented a letter of congratulations from Japan’s Prime Minister, TAKAICHI Sanae, and expressed Japan’s congratulations on Vila Nova’s reelection. ONISHI also noted the significance of his visit, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Sao Tome and Principe. President Vila Nova expressed his gratitude for Japan’s ongoing support and his desire to strengthen bilateral relations.
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addition to the inauguration events, ONISHI engaged in informal discussions with key officials of Sao Tome and Principe. On September 3, he met with Prime Minister Americo dOliveira dos Ramos and Minister of Environment, Youth, and Sustainable Tourism, Nilda Borges da Mata. The following day, he met with Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Communities, Ilza Maria dos Santos Amado Vaz, discussing the future of Japan-Sao Tome and Principe relations.
Furthermore, ONISHI expanded his diplomatic engagements with other international representatives present for the inauguration. On September 3, he met with Manuel Augusto Lima Amante da Rosa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Community, and Defense of Cabo Verde, discussing bilateral relations. Additionally, he held informal talks with Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro, and Angolan Minister of Foreign Affairs Tete Antonio.