Tonga and Japan have reaffirmed their commitment to stronger bilateral ties during a high-level meeting in Osaka.
Japan’s Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi met with Tonga’s Crown Prince Tupoutoʻa ʻUlukalala, who also serves as Minister for Foreign Affairs and His Majesty’s Armed Forces. The meeting on Wednesday coincided with the Crown Prince’s visit to attend Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai.
Minister Iwaya congratulated the Crown Prince on his recent appointment, noting the enduring friendship between the Japanese Imperial Family and the Tongan Royal Family as a cornerstone of bilateral relations. He welcomed the Crown Prince’s participation in Tonga’s National Day at the Expo on April 18, expressing hope that the event would further enhance ties between the two nations.
The ministers agreed to strengthen cooperation on shared challenges, including climate change and marine environmental issues. Minister Iwaya highlighted Japan’s support for the Pacific Resilience Facility and its commitment to strengthening regional connectivity and resilience, building on outcomes from the 10th Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting held in July 2024.
Crown Prince Tupoutoʻa ʻUlukalala expressed appreciation for Japan’s continued support and discussed regional matters of mutual concern.
