Seventeen Japanese investors are currently participating in the Pacific and Japan Regional Investment Seminar, taking place at the Pacific Island Forum Secretariat in Suva, Fiji.
Shaheen Ali, the Permanent Secretary for Trade, Cooperatives, MSMEs, and Communications, emphasized that the seminar aims to showcase opportunities for collaboration that can foster growth throughout the region. “The objective of this seminar is to enhance Japan’s cooperation with Forum Island nations, leading to tangible projects that can emerge as a result,” Ali stated.
Japanese Ambassador to Fiji, Rokuichiro Michii, highlighted the shared vision between Japan and the Pacific Island Countries (PICs) for achieving economically sustainable and resilient growth, which contributes to the overall social and economic well-being of Pacific communities. He mentioned that this vision was reaffirmed by leaders during the PALM 10 meeting held in Japan earlier this July.
The seminar also aims to bolster regional cooperation through various sectors including trade, investment, tourism, and the development of local industries such as agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. Ambassador Michii acknowledged that while Japanese firms possess advanced technological solutions with great potential for business in the Pacific, building connections with Pacific Island governments and private sectors can be quite challenging.
“This seminar serves as a platform for establishing these connections and, most importantly, provides safe space for local private sectors to gain direct insights into Japanese technologies and their relevance to the socio-economic issues faced in the region,” he added.
This initiative signifies a positive step towards strengthening ties between Japan and the Pacific Islands, aiming for enduring partnerships that can lead to economic growth and sustainable development in these regions. With continued collaboration through such seminars, there is hope for enhanced innovation and prosperity in the Pacific.
Overall, the event illustrates the commitment of both Japan and Pacific Island nations to work collaboratively towards a brighter economic future.
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