On September 20, 2011, H.E. Ambassador Toshinao Urabe, the Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines, conducted a press briefing for members from the Philippine, Japanese and foreign press and media, with regards to President Aquino's Official Working Visit to Japan on Sunday, September 25 until Wednesday, September 28.
During his stay in Japan, the President will make a State Call on His Majesty the Emperor of Japan, and His Majesty the Emperor will host a Court Luncheon in honor of President Aquino. Mr. Yoshihiko Noda, Prime Minister of Japan, will hold a meeting with the President. President Aquino is the first Head of State to hold talks with the Prime Minister on an Official Working Visit, since Prime Minister Noda assumed office. President Aquino will visit Ishinomaki City in Miyagi Prefecture, which is affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake.
Ambassador Urabe highlighted the three significant pillars of President Aquino's official working visit. “First, Japan puts a lot of importance in its relationship with the Philippines and vice-versa , as exemplified most recently by a strong bond of friendship (“Kizuna”) and solidarity shown at March 11 earthquake and tsunami. Second, there is the complementary character of the two countries which has led to a very close economic partnership and cooperation and this relationship is maturing nicely. Third, this visit confirms the strategic partnership between the two countries,” Ambassador Urabe explained.
After the briefing, Ambassador Urabe welcomed questions from members of the press and media, which included topics such as possible talks with the Japanese business sector regarding trade and investments, the stance of the Government of Japan regarding the Mindanao peace process, as well as the continuing Official Development Assistance (ODA) to the Philippines from the Government of Japan.
