YOKOHAMA, JAPAN – His Majesty King Mswati III has commended Japan for its continued development assistance to Africa, with Eswatini being one of the beneficiaries.
Speaking during a bilateral meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba yesterday, His Majesty described Japan’s partnership with Africa as a vital link that provides valuable experiences for accelerating growth. The discussions centred on strengthening trade, development cooperation, and broader bilateral relations.
The King pointed out that the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) came at a critical time, when the continent is pursuing Agenda 2063, which envisions “the Africa we want.” He explained that while the continental plan is key, each country has its own development priorities. For Eswatini, he said, the focus is on improving citizens’ welfare by building a strong social sector.
“Our nation is recovering from the setbacks of the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected economies globally. Encouragingly, our economy has recorded an eight per cent GDP growth, with more potential for expansion,” His Majesty told the Japanese leader.
He expressed gratitude for Japan’s openness to engagement and support, describing it as essential for smaller nations seeking sustainable growth.
Prime Minister Ishiba, in turn, welcomed His Majesty to Japan, noting that this marked his sixth participation in TICAD over a period spanning more than 25 years. The Japanese leader expressed appreciation for Eswatini’s involvement and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening ties.
Japan also announced measures to address food insecurity in Africa, including food assistance to countries affected by drought. Prime Minister Ishiba further committed to investing in youth development through human resource capacity-building initiatives, a move which His Majesty welcomed.
The two leaders agreed to work together in addressing international challenges, while also deepening bilateral cooperation.
His Majesty was accompanied by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Pholile Shakantu, Natural Resources and Energy Minister Prince Lonkhokhela, Economic Planning and Development Minister Dr Tambo Gina, and Commerce, Industry and Trade Minister Manqoba Khumalo. Also present were ambassadors Menzi Dlamini, Mahlaba Mamba, and the King’s Private Secretary, Mbongeni Simelane.
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