“As a partner with Pacific island countries and sharing the Pacific Ocean we will do as much as we can to help Pacific islands try to overcome their challenges,” Aso told the 13 heads of state and other officials from the Pacific at the two-day summit.
Calling Japan “a country that leads the world in the environment,” Aso said Japan wants to share technology and know-how with the island region.
Aso said Japan’s promise at the 2006 PALM to provide $45 billion in aid and promote exchanges among at least 1,000 youth were realized over the past three years.
Niue Premier Toke Talagi, who also chairs the Pacific Islands Forum, said the strong relationship between Japan and the islands comes from “shared values of democracy, good governance, the rule of law, freedom of press and the promotion of economic development.”
Talagi urged Japan to bring its aid programs into line with the “Pacific Plan,” a blueprint for regional and national development produced by the Pacific Island Forum nations two years ago. “We are constantly looking to improve development aid effectiveness,” Talagi said in urging Japan to align their programs with the Pacific Plan.
Japan was recognized as “a significant aid and trade partner” for the region, “and we look forward to it continuing,” Talagi said. “We’re extremely grateful for assistance from Japan.”
The two-day summit is expected to reaffirm the close relationship, with Aso expected to announce aid projects for climate change and environmental protection, as well as people-to-people exchanges.
