Djibouti-(Mogadishu24)–Djibouti’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Yonis Ali Guedi, welcomed a high-level Japanese business delegation on a working visit aimed at exploring new avenues for economic and energy cooperation between the two nations.

The delegation, led by Tetsuro Yano, President of the Africa-Japan Association for Economic and Development (AFRECO), included ARA Tatsuo, President of the Japan-Djibouti Friendship Association and former Ambassador to Djibouti, alongside executives from TODA Corporation, Yachiyo Engineering, and Penta-Ocean Construction Co. Ltd. The meeting was facilitated by Japan’s Ambassador to Djibouti, Keiichi Hara.

Discussions focused on expanding collaboration in renewable energy and petroleum infrastructure, including support for Djibouti’s five-year strategic energy development plan. The parties also explored opportunities for wind and biomass power projects, as well as the construction of oil infrastructure such as a refinery at the Damerjog Industrial Park.

In his remarks, Minister Yonis Ali Guedi welcomed the Japanese delegation, expressing gratitude for Japan’s continued support and highlighting the need to intensify cooperation:
“The Japanese expertise in geothermal energy development is unparalleled, and we look forward to harnessing this know-how to unlock Djibouti’s energy potential,” he stated, referring to ongoing projects with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The Minister invited Japanese companies to invest massively in Djibouti and take advantage of the country’s strategic location and emerging opportunities.

Tetsuro Yano, head of the Japanese delegation, reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to strengthening ties with Djibouti:
“We are eager to contribute to Djibouti’s sustainable socio-economic development by sharing Japan’s energy expertise and fostering long-term partnerships,” he said.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to maintain regular virtual meetings to ensure effective implementation of the discussed projects and strengthen collaboration further.

This visit marks a significant step in reinforcing the 46-year-old relationship between Djibouti and Japan, which spans various sectors, including education, maritime security, transportation, infrastructure, and energy, particularly geothermal exploration.

The session was attended by key officials, including Mahdi Waberi Hassan, Technical Advisor to the Minister, and Gouled Mohamed Djama, Director of Energy.

The meeting laid the groundwork for a renewed strategic partnership, promising mutual benefits for the two countries and their peoples.