A reception was held at the Toranomon Pastoral Hotel where dignitaries from the government of Japan, representatives of the private sector and civil society, friends from the diplomatic corps, FSM supporters and FSM citizens residing in Tokyo attended.
Speaking before the guests, Mori stated that the last 20 years have been comprised of events of mutual assistance, cooperation, and exchanges between Japan and the FSM.
“The bilateral relations have dynamically developed during the short period and there is much that we have achieved together, therefore we have reasons to be proud and to celebrate our achievements,” Mori noted.
State Minister of Foreign Affairs Madam Sieko Hashimoto spoke on behalf of the government of Japan, asserting the solid and warm bilateral relations and emphasizing that his government is looking forward to actively promoting the good relationship that both countries have come to enjoy.
Former Prime Minister Yoshiro Mori, who is the chairman of the FSM-Japan Parliamentary Friendship League and who recently visited the FSM, offered a toast congratulating both countries on the many achievements over the past 20 years of bilateral relations.
Also in Tokyo to take part in the event was an eight-member cultural delegation from Yap state. The dancers first performed at the International Cultural Week in Aichi and 2nd Minato City Fair of Commerce and Tourism before performing at the evening reception hosted by the FSM Embassy.
In Tokyo, P Mori had courtesy calls on Japan’s Prime Minister Taro Aso and Minister of Foreign Affairs Hirofumi Nakasone.
Aso conveyed sincere greetings and warm welcome to Mori and his delegation and expressed gratitude and appreciation to the people and government of the FSM for nurturing the strong and warm bilateral relations.
Aso reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to provide $2 million to assist the FSM with its economic reform for energy needs.
Mori also visited Kochi Prefecture, where his family has ancestral links.
In Kochi, the president met with the governor and mayor of the prefecture, as well as members of the Mori family.
