Cabinet has expressed its support for the strengthened relationship between South Africa and Japan following Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s working visit to Japan earlier this month.
The visit, held from 17 to 19 March 2025, aimed to enhance cooperation between the two countries in areas of mutual interest.
“Engagements were also held with the Japan International Cooperation Agency to explore areas of economic collaboration, the Association for African Economic Development in Japan to discuss trade and investment opportunities, and the Japan Organisation for Metals and Energy Security to highlight investment opportunities in the mining sector,” said the Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.
She was addressing the media during at a post-Cabinet media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday.
SAnews reported that Deputy President Mashatile successfully concluded his working visit to Japan last week.
The two nations commemorated 115 years of strong diplomatic relations, with 2025 marking a significant milestone as both countries chair key multilateral organisations.
South Africa currently holds the Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20), while Japan will lead the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD-9) Summit in August this year.
During the working visit, Mashatile met with Japanese government officials, including a courtesy call to Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi.
The country’s second-in-command also met with the Japan-African Union Parliamentary Friendship League to strengthen bilateral relations and parliamentary cooperation between South Africa and Japan.
During these engagements, the Deputy President highlighted South Africa’s favourable business environment, skilled workforce, and strategic location, making it an attractive destination for Japanese investment.
The Deputy President expressed his appreciation for Japan’s support of South Africa’s Presidency of the G20, stating that he looks forward to collaborating with Japan to ensure the TICAD-9 Summit is successful. – SAnews.gov.za
