[Title] Remarks by H.E. Mr. Taro Kono, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan at the Closing Session of theTICAD Ministerial Meeting in Maputo, Mozambique

Honorable Ministers,

Distinguished delegates,

Ladies and gentlemen,

First of all, I would like to express my sincere appreciation for your active contribution to each session of the Ministerial Meeting during the last two days. We reviewed the progress in the implementation of the TICAD policies and commitments and exchanged views on the challenges and the way forward.

Vibrant and fruitful interventions are indeed a reflection of the high expectation of all the participants towards TICAD, not to mention their serious engagement in the process. At this meeting, we had in–depth discussions on economic transformation for Africa's growth as well as the promotion of human security and resilient society. The gist of the discussions is articulated in the Co-chairs' Summary which has just been distributed to you.

During the session on Africa's economic transformation, I was extremely encouraged to know how actively the private sector is engaged in the development of the African continent. We shared the importance of creating an enabling environment to provide more incentives for direct investment in Africa, including by enhancing connectivity through quality infrastructure development. The need to respect international norms and standards to ensure fair, open and transparent investment operations was also stressed.

During the session on the promotion of human security and resilient society, we reaffirmed that the steady implementation of TICAD policies and commitments undoubtedly contributes to the realization of the Africa's own Agenda 2063 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. We underlined the nexus between development and security in Africa, and highlighted the importance of good governance and the prevalence of rule of law. We also agreed on the need for concerted efforts to promote maritime security by ensuring freedom of navigation and a rules-based maritime order in accordance with the international law.

With regard to the second pillar of the TICAD VI outcome, "promotion of resilient health systems", we discussed how to promote universal health coverage and improve our response to public health crises. The importance of food security and nutrition was also highlighted.

In conclusion, with all of these rich and fruitful discussions during this Ministerial Meeting, I am confident that all the participants are fully on board to work together for further progress towards TICAD 7.

I thank the Co-organizers for their hard work to make the meeting a great success. I also express my heartfelt gratitude to the Government and the people of Mozambique for their wonderful hospitality that gave us energy with its beautiful landscape and delicious cuisine, here in Maputo.

I look forward to meeting you all at the next year's Ministerial Meeting in Japan.

Thank you very much.