She used the occasion to reiterate the Common African position that focuses on An integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.According to President Sirleaf, Africa 2063 Agenda epitomizes a commitment toward the paradigm shift, a consensus in economic and political integration.
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The Tokyo International Conference of African Development (TICAD) was launched in 1993 by the Government of Japan, to promote Africa’s development, peace and security, through the strengthening of relations in multilateral cooperation and partnership, particularly with the country. He called on countries not to impose their wishes on the continent.
Representing the Host country, H.E. Ambassador Monica K. Juma, Principal Secretary of Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kenya, acknowledged TICAD as a forum that has been able to promote synergy between Africa, Japan, and the worldwide community in a candid and heart to heart manner that promotes a sense of equality and mutual benefit. “Japan has never failed Africa and we are confident Japan will rise up to the challenge”, the President stated.
President John Mahama has urged African countries to create an enabling business environment that will guarantee the security of foreign direct investments.
“We should continue to take measures to reduce the cost of doing business in Africa. This makes it a forum bringing the power of the public and private sectors together to forge solutions”, he emphasized.
Japan has also pledged to put the advances of its domestic education policies at the disposal of African industries.
All the African Heads of State and Government of Japan as well as other dignitaries will be expected to participate in the TICAD VI Summit.
“The private sector and civil society groups must be constantly involved in the development process through a consultative process”, he said.
“This is an investment that has faith in Africa’s future”.
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Japan will also provide a concessional loan to the Olkaria geothermal project, operated by state-run Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen), the two leaders added.
