On March 18, 2025, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi hosted Deputy President Paul Mashatile of South Africa. Their meeting focused on strengthening bilateral relations, with discussions on energy cooperation, business environments, and South Africa’s decarbonization efforts. Both officials expressed commitment to enhancing collaboration and appreciating their historical partnership.
On March 18, 2025, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi met with Mr. Paul Mashatile, Deputy President of South Africa, for a brief session spanning approximately 15 minutes. This meeting, occurring at 10:50 a.m., was held during Deputy President Mashatile’s visit to Japan, which was facilitated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The discussions aimed to enhance Japan-South Africa relations amid several significant events, including South Africa’s G20 presidency and the hosting of TICAD 9.
During the meeting, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hayashi extended a warm welcome to Deputy President Mashatile and his delegation, acknowledging the 115th anniversary of Japan-South Africa diplomatic relations. He emphasized the importance of recent high-level visits and the ongoing collaboration between the two nations across various sectors, both governmental and private. Deputy President Mashatile reciprocated by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to visit Japan and voiced his commitment to strengthening bilateral relations further.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Hayashi articulated Japan’s intent to sustain cooperative efforts, particularly in achieving a realistic energy transition while ensuring energy security. He also highlighted the necessity for a conducive business environment to support Japanese enterprises operating in South Africa. In response, Deputy President Mashatile appreciated Japan’s collaboration in renewable energy and conveyed his hopes for expanded bilateral cooperation towards South Africa’s decarbonization and increased Japanese investment in the country.
The meeting between Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi and Deputy President Paul Mashatile marks a significant step in reinforcing Japan-South Africa relations. Both parties expressed their intention to work collaboratively on energy security and investment opportunities, emphasizing the importance of ongoing cooperation in diverse sectors. The discussions also reflect mutual appreciation for the milestones achieved over the past years and the shared goals for future collaboration.
Original Source: www.mofa.go.jp
