(Press Release)
May 23, 2025
Japan Ministry of Defense
On May 23, 2025, commencing at 13:50 for approximately 30 minutes, State Minister Honda held a meeting with Deputy Minister Holomisa of the Republic of South Africa.
- At the outset, State Minister Honda welcomed Deputy Minister Holomisa’s visit to Japan, noting the close relationship between the two countries that has been fostered for 115 years.
- Both sides exchanged views on the regional security environment as well as bilateral defense cooperation and exchanges. They welcomed the growing momentum of defense exchanges between Japan and South Africa, including the first-ever port call by JMSDF’s vessel to the Port of Cape Town in July last year.
- Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening mutual understanding and trust by exchanging visits on every possible occasion, considering that Japan and South Africa are connected through the Indian and Pacific Oceans.