(TOKYO) – Japan and South Sudan have reaffirmed their cooperation following high level talks at the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), where Japan outlined plans to increase support for Africa’s critical mineral development and strengthen bilateral ties with South Sudan.
The three day conference, which opened on Wednesday in Yokohama, brought together leaders from across Africa and Japan to discuss economic partnerships. One of the central themes was the growing global competition for access to critical minerals such as lithium, tantalum and uranium, which are increasingly essential for electric vehicles and modern defence industries.
Japan emphasised that any new partnerships would need to focus not only on the extraction of resources but also on fair and equitable cooperation that includes local processing and value addition within Africa. According to reports from Japanese media, officials highlighted the importance of ensuring a stable supply of critical minerals while promoting responsible development practices.
On Thursday, Japan’s Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi met with South Sudan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Monday Semaya Kenneth Kumba. Their meeting, which lasted around 20 minutes, focused on South Sudan’s stability, investment opportunities and Japan’s ongoing support to the country.
Minister Iwaya described stability in South Sudan as vital for peace in the wider region. He reiterated Japan’s previous assistance and said Tokyo would continue to support South Sudan as what he termed an “escort runner,” standing alongside the country during its state building process. He further announced new assistance in the areas of food security and landmine clearance, two issues that remain pressing in South Sudan.
In response, Minister Semaya expressed his gratitude for Japan’s long standing support. He welcomed potential Japanese investment, particularly in infrastructure and development projects, and emphasised South Sudan’s commitment to implementing its peace agreement, including preparations for national elections.
Both sides also discussed broader international issues, including North Korea’s nuclear and missile programmes, the unresolved abduction issue, and reforms at the United Nations Security Council. They agreed to maintain close cooperation on these matters.