Japan Hosts Reception for TICAD Ministerial Meeting
Booth exhibitions showcasing Japanese companies, public agencies, local governments, and participating organizations were also set up at the reception venue.
TOKYO— Japan’s Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa hosted a welcome reception for African leaders and international organizations attending the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) Ministerial Meeting on Sunday, writes Winston Mwale.
Kamikawa welcomed the delegations and expressed her commitment to strengthening coordination with African countries for the success of TICAD 9, scheduled for Yokohama next August.
She unveiled the official logo for the upcoming conference.
Yokohama Mayor Takeharu Yamanaka also addressed the reception, emphasizing the city's commitment to hosting a successful TICAD 9.
Ichiro Aizawa, a member of Japan's House of Representatives and Chairman of the Japan-African Union (AU) Parliamentary Friendship League, proposed a toast.
The reception featured traditional Bon-odori dances from across Japan, showcasing the country’s cultural diversity.
Guests enjoyed dishes made with ingredients from various regions, including disaster-affected areas like Tohoku and Ishikawa.
Booth exhibitions showcasing Japanese companies, public agencies, local governments, and participating organizations were also set up at the reception venue.