PRESS RELEASE – PRESENTATION OF CREDENTIALS OF THE AMBASSADOR OF JAPAN TO SAMOA (THURSDAY 9 JANUARY 2025)

H.E. Mr. Ryotaro Suzuki presented his Letters of Credence to the Head of State of Samoa, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II, during the Credentials ceremony held at the residence of the Head of State at Vailele this morning, accrediting His Excellency as the resident Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Samoa. H.E. Suzuki was accompanied by Mr. Kazuo Tsukada, Deputy Head of Mission to the presentation of credentials ceremony.

Samoa and Japan have enjoyed cordial relations since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1973. During the credential ceremony, H.E Mr. Ryotaro Suzuki stated, "The Government and the People of Japan attach great importance to further strengthening the relationship with Samoa for mutual benefits of both countries." Ambassador Suzuki pledged his commitment to working with the people and government of Samoa to strengthen bilateral ties and expand the scope of cooperation between Samoa and Japan.

Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II in his responding remarks confirmed the growing relations that exists between Samoa and Japan. "Our relationship has developed over the years demonstrating a genuine and enduring partnership with mutual benefits." The Head of State stated that he is confident that the appointment of H.E. Suzuki will continue to enhance and further strengthen the existing relations between Samoa and Japan.

H.E. Mr. Ryotaro Suzuki served as the Ambassador of Japan to Iceland prior to his current appointment. Mr. Suzuki also served as First Secretary and later as Counsellor at the Embassy of Japan in Canada, as a Counselor and later as Minister at the Embassy in Sweden, as Minister at the Embassy in Laos and as Minister to the Permanent Mission of Japan to the OECD. Mr. Suzuki graduated from the University of Cambridge, LL.M. in International Law and the University of Tokyo, Faculty of Law. H.E. Suzuki arrived in Apia on Monday 16 December 2024 as successor to former Ambassador H.E Senta Keisuke.

End.

SOURCE - MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE

Photos by the Government of Samoa (Leaosa Faaifo Faaifo)