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The relationship between Japan and Vanuatu did not begin in recent years, but can be traced back to around the end of the 19th century. At that time, Japanese merchants and people involved in the fishing industry were active throughout the South Pacific, and there were Japanese residents and visitors in what is now Vanuatu. Although on a limited scale, it has been confirmed that Japanese communities formed here. Many Japanese people left during the Second World War, and while people-to-people exchanges subsequently stagnated for a time, relations were gradually re-established amid changes in the international environment and Vanuatu's movement towards independence. Japan officially recognised Vanuatu as a sovereign state upon its independence in July 1980.
JICA began cooperating with Vanuatu in 1981, immediately following independence. Over the past 45 years, JICA has broadened the scope of its cooperation to include the dispatch of experts, the acceptance of training participants in Japan, the formulation of development plans, the dispatch of Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers, infrastructure development through financial assistance, joint cooperation projects with Japanese local authorities/universities/private sectors, and emergency relief. JICA has carried out this cooperation across a wide range of fields, including economic and social development, disaster prevention and recovery, and environmental and climate change measures. Our cooperation has strengthened people-to-people ties between the two countries and deepened friendly relations.
Vanuatu is a charming country, blessed with beautiful natural scenery and a diverse culture. Traditions and values are deeply rooted in each region and coexist alongside one another. However, it also faces development challenges due to geographical constraints and vulnerability to natural disasters and climate change. Japan, too, has a history of receiving support from the international community, progressing from being a developing country to a developed one. Furthermore, throughout its long history, Japan has frequently been struck by natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons, and thus shares many of the same challenges as Vanuatu.
We will continue working together with the people of Japan and Vanuatu to promote economic and social development and build a nation that is resilient to natural disasters and climate change in Vanuatu, a country that has pursued peace and democracy and has fostered a long-standing partnership and friendship with Japan.
ASAKUMA, Yumiko
Resident Representative