Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio (R) and Senegalese Macky Sall in Tokyo on December 19, 2022. (photo: Kyodo/ VNA)

Kishida spoke with Senegalese President Macky Sall in Tokyo yesterday. Sall now serves as the AU's chairperson. The group is one of the largest regional organizations, with 55 members. In expressing Japan's support, the prime minister pointed out that the role of African nations in the international community has been growing.

To deepen ties between Japan and Senegal, they confirmed that their countries will work to develop natural resources and support investment in the African nation by Japanese firms.

At a joint news conference following the talks, Kishida said Japan intends to further strengthen relations with Africa, and that he believes it is important to increase Africa's presence in the G20.