Japan reiterates non-recognition of separatist entity for third time at TICAD 9

In a strong and clear message to Africa and the UN, Japan reiterated, for the third time in two days, its steadfast position of non-recognition of the separatist entity at the opening of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) summit on Wednesday in Yokohama.

At the kick-off of the summit and prior to the start of proceedings, Japanese Minister of Foreign Affairs Takeshi Iwaya made a solemn statement on behalf of his government, emphasizing that “the presence of an entity not recognized by Japan as a state does not affect Japan’s position on the status of that entity.”

This clarification was the only point raised in the Japanese foreign minister’s opening remarks after the customary pleasantries, thus sending a clear signal regarding Japan’s unwavering position and its rejection of maneuvers seeking to exploit separatist elements and divert attention from the primary purpose of a summit devoted to development issues in Africa.

This triple reiteration by Japan follows a similar statement expressed by Iwaya on Tuesday during the opening ministerial meeting, who sought to clarify his country’s official position on the puppet entity.

“I would like to make it clear that the presence at this meeting of any entity that Japan does not recognize as a state does not affect Japan’s position on the status of that entity,” Iwaya told African ministers and representatives of international organizations.

Similarly, the meeting of senior officials in preparation for TICAD 9, also held on Tuesday in Yokohama, was marked by a firm clarification of Japan’s position on the non-recognition of the separatist entity.

Japanese diplomacy also expressed its reservations about the presence of the separatist entity, stating that Japan had refused to send it an invitation and had limited itself to inviting “countries with which Japan has diplomatic relations,” specifying that “it was the African Union Commission that invited all its members.”

Morocco is represented at the TICAD 9 Summit by His Majesty the King’s Ambassador to Japan, Mohamed Rachad Bouhlal.

According to the organizers of this edition, themed “Co-creating innovative solutions with Africa,” discussions will aim to align the development goals of the African Union (AU) with those of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda.

This edition also strives to strengthen collaboration in technological innovation between Japan and Africa, and to explore new markets in areas of digital transition, sustainable development, and social inclusion.

In this connection, the “TICAD Business Expo” brings together 196 Japanese companies and organizations, including 107 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Exhibitors display their innovations across eight thematic sectors, including infrastructure, public health, agri-food value chains, and popular culture.