ZANZIBAR, Dec 3 (NNN-DAILYNEWS) — ZANZIBAR has pledged to strengthen its diplomatic relations with Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for the mutual benefit of citizens in both countries.
Isles Minister for Trade and Industrial Development, Omar Said Shaaban, said that under the 63-year cooperation, Zanzibar has achieved significant milestones, with JICA playing a key role in supporting numerous social and economic projects.
He was speaking at the JICA Alumni Association of Tanzania (JATA) 20th anniversary celebration, held over the weekend.
The minister’s remarks were delivered by his Deputy Permanent Secretary, Dr Said Seif Mzee. He said that the historical cooperation between Zanzibar and Japan is based on solid foundations of democracy, good governance, diplomatic relations and international cooperation.
Minister Shaaban expressed his gratitude to JICA for its contributions to projects in various sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, energy, transport, health, water, industry, tourism, education and investment. He assured that Zanzibar remains committed to sustaining and strengthening this cooperation to enhance the effectiveness of economic diplomacy for the benefit of both countries.
“Tanzania values this high-quality, enduring partnership with Japan and we look forward to deepening our cooperation in the coming years as we identify new development priorities,” said the minister, also inviting Japan, through JICA, to expand its economic engagements with Tanzania.
He praised Japan for its support in providing knowledge, expertise and expanding social and economic activities in Zanzibar.
The minister emphasised that the government is eager to collaborate with Tanzanians who have studied in Japan to explore more opportunities that will contribute to the social and economic development of Zanzibar and Tanzania as a whole.
Shaaban also acknowledged JATA as a key stakeholder in Zanzibar’s development. He described JATA as an important agent of change, noting that the association’s members engage with local communities, identify challenges and create practical solutions.
“JATA is a bridge to the people. While implementing JICA’s philosophy, you engage directly with communities, observe their challenges and design effective solutions,” he said.
He commended JATA for its 20 years of hard work, creativity, expertise and dedication in contributing to Tanzania’s development goals and strengthening social prosperity. — NNN-DAILYNEWS
