Statement by Mr. Yoshihiko Noda, Prime Minister of Japan, on the Passing of Mr. Meles Zenawi, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

By Japan - Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Statement by Mr. Yoshihiko Noda, Prime Minister of Japan, on the Passing of Mr. Meles Zenawi, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
Statement by Mr. Yoshihiko Noda, Prime Minister of Japan, on the Passing of Mr. Meles Zenawi, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

TOKYO, Japan, August 29, 2012/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Upon receiving the news of the passing of Mr. Meles Zenawi, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, the Government of Japan expresses sincere condolences to his bereaved family, and the Government and people of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

Prime Minister Meles made a total of five visits to Japan. Notably, Prime Minister Meles attended the Tokyo International Conferences on African Development (TICAD) every time since the second conference that was held in 1998, and made great contributions not only to the development of Japan-Ethiopia relations but to the promotion of the TICAD process that the Government of Japan emphasizes.


Since his inauguration in 1995 as the first Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Prime Minister Meles made efforts toward the development of society and economy in Ethiopia, and at the same time, as an outstanding leader in the African region, played important roles in the peace and stability of the region. Moreover, Prime Minister Meles spoke on behalf of Africa in the international arena, such as during the G8, G20, and COP 17. Thus, Prime Minister Meles made various contributions to the development of the African region.


The Government of Japan offers its sincerest prayers for the repose of Prime Minister Meles's soul, deeply appreciates his achievements, and hopes that the Government of Ethiopia and its people will overcome this sadness and continue to progress toward further development and prosperity of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.