TOKYO, JAPAN — June 2, 2026 — Her Excellency Dr. Hilda C. Heine joined fellow Pacific leaders in a courtesy meeting with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi of Japan at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence on the margins of the Island States Ocean Summit.
The meeting brought together H.E. President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. of the Republic of Palau, H.R.H. Crown Prince Haakon of Norway, Hon. Prime Minister Mark Brown of the Cook Islands, and Hon. Prime Minister Feleti Teo of Tuvalu, along with representatives of the Summit’s organizing and partner institutions. Also present were Mr. Yohei Sasakawa, Honorary Chair of the Nippon Foundation, as a representative of the conference organizer; Mr. Vidar Helgesen, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, as a representative of the co-organizer; and H.E. Mr. Peter Thomson, United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Ocean.
The leaders highlighted the importance of strengthening collaboration to address challenges facing island nations, including climate change, ocean governance, energy security, and sustainable development.
President Heine personally conveyed the Marshall Islands’ appreciation for Japan’s longstanding friendship and partnership and welcomed continued cooperation on shared regional priorities.
President Heine also commended Japan, the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, and partners for convening the Island States Ocean Summit, which brought together leaders, experts, and stakeholders from around the world to advance dialogue on ocean-related issues and the future of island states.
The meeting underscored the strong partnership between Japan and Pacific island countries and a shared commitment to building a resilient, sustainable, and peaceful Pacific region.
Photo credit: Prime Minister’s Office of Japan – Cabinet Public Affairs Office
