The Japan-Tonga cooperation will foster a “free and open Indo-Pacific” based on the rule of law, the Japanese Ambassador to Tonga said last night, 20 February, at a reception he hosted to celebrate the 65th birthday of the Emperor of Japan, HIM Emperor Naruhito.
HE Inagaki Hisao welcomed HM King Tupou VI with HM Queen Nanasipau’u, HRH Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala and HRH Crown Princess Sinaitakala Tuku’aho to the Residence of the Ambassador, in ‘Anana.
Emperor Naruhito of Japan was born on 23 February 1960.
HE Inagaki Hisao in his welcoming address, noted the close relationship and warm friendship between Tonga and Japan.
He said, “Japan-Tonga cooperation in the spirit of mutual understanding will foster the realization of a “free and open Indo-Pacific” based on the rule of law, and will maintain and strengthen our relationship.”
He noted a highlight for Tonga-Japan relations included HRH Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala leading Tonga’s delegation to the Japan Pacific Islands Defense Dialogue (JPIDD), in Tokyo, in March, 2024.
This year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of the Tonga-Japan diplomatic ties.
The Prime Minister, Hon. Dr ‘Aisake Eke, and members of the Cabinet were also in attendance.
