Top > What's up around the Prime Minister > April, 2005

Japan-Colombia Summit Meeting Monday, April 11, 2005 Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi held a meeting with Mr. Alvaro Uribe Velez, the President of the Republic of Colombia at the Prime Minister's Official Residence. At the meeting, President Uribe said, "I would like to thank Japan for its cooperation in a wide range of fields including building elementary schools and libraries, and academic exchanges." He also requested Japan's assistance in two projects, "La Linea Tunnel Construction Plan" and "The Renaissance of the Orinoco River Savannahs: A Colombian Mega Project for the World." In response, Prime Minister Koizumi said, "Japan would like to cooperate as much as possible," and expressed his intention to advance preparations to consider providing assistance for the tunnel project. With regard to the reforestation project, Prime Minister Koizumi said, "It is a good project for the environment, and I believe that it is a worthwhile project for which to provide assistance." The two leaders affirmed that it is important to strengthen economic relations between Japan and Colombia. Prime Minister Koizumi said that he wished to invite Colombian entrepreneurs to Japan with the aim of fostering small- and medium-sized enterprises in Colombia. Lastly, Prime Minister Koizumi said, "I would like to realize cooperation between Japan and Colombia in reforming the United Nations (UN). I would very much like to realize reform of the UN Security Council." In response, President Uribe said, "I am fully aware of Japan's wish to become a permanent member of the UN Security Council. I will give as much consideration as possible to Japan's request for assistance in this regard."