MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said that President Aquino would call on Japanese Emperor Akihito and meet Prime Minister Yoshiniko Noda during his official working visit to Japan from Sept. 25 to 28.
The President would go to Japan after his scheduled visit to the United States from Sept. 18 to 23, where he is expected to promote his administration’s anti-corruption and economic measures in conferences in New York and Washington.
In Japan, Aquino would pay a “state call” on His Majesty Emperor Akihito, who will be hosting a court luncheon in his honor.
Aquino would discuss with Noda the advancement of bilateral relations and exchange views on issues of mutual interest.
The DFA said Aquino would be the first official visitor of Noda.
A major objective of the President’s visit would involve his attendance in a business forum and a roundtable discussion with top Japanese businessmen.
Aquino would also hold a dialogue with leaders of the Filipino community in Tokyo and Miyagi Prefecture in Northeastern Japan, among the areas that were severely affected by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.
Both governments are expected to reiterate their commitment to strengthen the strategic partnership between the Philippines and Japan. – With Ding Cervantes