Top > What's up around the Prime Minister > December, 2004

Japan-Tanzania Summit Meeting Tuesday, December 7, 2004 Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi held a meeting with Mr. Benjamin William Mkapa, the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, at the Prime Minister's Official Residence. At the meeting, the two leaders discussed the reform of the United Nations Security Council and the economic cooperation concerning their bilateral relations. President Mkapa announced his support for Japan to become a permanent member of the Security Council and said that he would also call on other African countries for that. In response, Prime Minister Koizumi expressed his gratitude for Tanzania's support, saying, "The momentum for the reform of the United Nations is now picking up its pace, and we perceive this as a chance to reform." President Mkapa then requested Japan's assistance for the Corridor Mtwara Development Plan that encompasses four southeast African countries-Tanzania, Republic of Mozambique, Republic of Malawi and Republic of Zambia-and includes the project to construct a bridge over the river that borders Tanzania and Mozambique. Prime Minister Koizumi said, "While construction of the bridge is important, I have received reports that what is even more important is the development of the southern region of Tanzania. Japan intends to provide cooperation necessary for Tanzania upon thorough discussions with Tanzania for the development of the region."