Japanese foreign minister arrives today

MANILA, Philippines - Japan’s newly appointed Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida begins today his two-day official visit to Manila where he is expected to discuss regional issues as well as the foreign policy priorities of the new Japanese leadership with Philippine officials.

Kishida received his appointment from Prime Minister Shinzo Abe only last Dec. 26. Kishida’s official visit is his first overseas tour as foreign minister.

Kishida is scheduled to meet with Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and pay a courtesy call on President Aquino.

The DFA said the visit is an opportunity for both countries to advance their strategic partnership under the new Japanese administration.

Japan is one of the biggest trading and investment partners of the Philippines. It is also one of the Philippines’ biggest sources of official development assistance.

The Philippines and Japan established diplomatic relations in July 1956.