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Japan-Kiribati Summit Meeting


Thursday, February 1, 2007



Photograph of Prime Minister Abe shaking hands with President Tong Photograph of the Japan-Kiribati Summit Meeting


Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held a meeting with Mr. Anote Tong, the President of the Republic of Kiribati, at the Prime Minister's Official Residence.

At the beginning, Prime Minister Abe said, "I cordially welcome this visit to Japan by President Tong following the Fourth Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM 4) in May last year. I would like to continue our cooperation as two island nations of the Pacific." Prime Minister Abe also referred to cooperation in the fishing industry. President Tong responded, "I appreciate the assistance Japan has consistently extended to us, as well as your words of welcome on my visit to Japan. I would like to take this opportunity to further maintain our cooperative relations."

At the meeting, the two leaders exchanged opinions concerning bilateral ties in areas such as the fishing industry and economic cooperation. President Tong expressed his support for Japan's stance concerning whaling issues, Japan's bid to become the permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and Japan's stance concerning the abduction issue.