JUBA — Japan’s newly appointed Ambassador-designate to South Sudan, Matsui Shinji, has arrived in Juba and pledged to strengthen cooperation and deepen relations between the two countries.
In his introductory message following his arrival on September 21, Matsui said he was honored to begin his first diplomatic assignment in South Sudan and Africa, expressing his readiness to work with the South Sudanese people and local institutions.
“It is a great honor to be here, and I look forward to working with all of you. Located north of the Equator in the White Nile basin of the Nile River, South Sudan is blessed with abundant water and oil and other natural resources,” Matsui said.
Matsui said Japan would continue to support South Sudan’s efforts toward lasting peace and self-reliance through humanitarian assistance, bilateral cooperation, and engagement with international and regional partners.
“This is my first assignment in both South Sudan and Africa. Prior to my arrival, I had the privilege of learning from my predecessors and colleagues at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who led the Embassy’s efforts to ensure the safety of Japanese nationals,” he said.
“Prepare for unforeseen contingencies, strengthen cooperation with local institutions and international partners, and promote coordination with neighboring countries and regions in support of the peace agreement.”
He highlighted Japan’s contribution to United Nations peacekeeping operations in South Sudan, including the deployment of personnel from the Japan Self-Defense Forces.
“As it continues its journey toward lasting peace and self-reliance, the country benefits from the support of UN peacekeeping operations, in which Japan has contributed personnel from the Japan Self-Defense Forces, as well as humanitarian assistance, bilateral cooperation, and support from our regional and international partners such as the African Union.”
Matsui also pointed to existing areas of cooperation between the two countries, including infrastructure development, vocational training, educational opportunities, humanitarian assistance, and support for displaced and conflict-affected communities.
He hailed Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) projects in Juba, including bridge construction and water tower installation, as examples of the partnership between the two countries.
The ambassador also acknowledged cooperation involving South Sudanese athletes and Japanese communities, including exchanges inspired by the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games and goodwill support from Maebashi City.
Matsui said the accumulated cooperation and people-to-people exchanges had helped build trust and friendship between Japan and South Sudan.
“Together with all of my colleagues at the Embassy, I will place the highest priority on ensuring the safety of Japanese nationals working on the ground despite the existing evacuation advisory, while also strengthening monitoring of the situation and communication,” he said.
Matsui said he would seek to provide timely public information about South Sudan while highlighting Japan’s contribution and promoting greater mutual understanding between the two countries.
Matsui expressed hope that the message of peace would resonate with South Sudanese and encourage efforts to build peaceful communities, maintain a safe environment, and work toward a sustainable future.
“Japan remains committed to supporting these efforts in partnership with a wide range of stakeholders both at home and abroad,” he said.
South Sudan and Japan have maintained cooperation in areas including peacebuilding, humanitarian assistance, infrastructure, education, vocational training, and economic development.
Matsui said he looked forward to deepening the friendship and cooperation between the people of Japan and South Sudan during his tenure.
