Japan PM envoy to visit PHL

JAPAN’S Special Envoy of the Prime Minister (PM) Kishida Fumio will pay a two-day visit to the Philippines to hold bilateral talks on zero emission initiatives.

In a press statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of Japan said Mr. Kishida, special envoy of the Prime Minister and supreme advisor to the Parliamentary Association of Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) will exchange ideas from April 30 to May 2.

“Mr. Kishida, special envoy of the Prime Minister, will hold meetings with high-level officials of the Philippines and exchange views on promoting tangible initiatives under AZEC and strengthening bilateral relations,” the ministry said.

The AZEC, a platform launched by Japan with 11 partner nations namely the Philippines, Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, aims to promote decarbonization in Asia.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. is also set for a Japan state visit from May 26 to May 29 with First Lady Marie Louise Araneta-Marcos.

According to the MOFA, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will hold a summit meeting with Mr. Marcos with the expectation to enhance the Philippines and Japan relations. — Kaela Patricia B. Gabriel