VP briefs TZ envoy on economic diplomacy
DODOMA: VICE-PRESIDENT Dr Philip Mpango has tasked the newly appointed Ambassador to Japan, Anderson Mutatembwa, to prioritise national interests, particularly economic diplomacy.
This includes attracting investment and trade from Japan as well as strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
Dr Mpango issued the directives during his meeting with the Ambassador designate at Chamwino State House on Tuesday in Dodoma, where among other things he congratulated Ambassador Mutatembwa on his appointment by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
He underscored the importance of ensuring that Japanese companies invest in Tanzania to help increase the value of locally produced goods for export to the Japanese and international markets.
Dr Mpango highlighted the need to persuade industrial investors from Japan, especially in the areas of automobile manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment and electronics.
“Japan has made significant progress in the logistics sector and therefore, fostering cooperation in that area would be beneficial, particularly as Tanzania serves as a gateway for various countries in the region,” said Dr Mpango.
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The Vice-President also called for increased investment in key strategic sectors such as tourism, agriculture, fisheries and health.
He pointed out that Japan is highly advanced in the treatment of non-communicable diseases such as heart and kidney diseases, and thus it is vital to seek opportunities for Tanzanians to pursue specialised medical training in those areas.
Dr Mpango further instructed the ambassador to oversee the implementation of initiatives under the Japan-Africa Cooperation Framework, as well as to follow up on existing agreements and partnerships between Tanzanian and Japanese cities.
He urged Mr Mutatembwa to identify and connect with Tanzanians residing in Japan, encouraging them to contribute to national development by investing in housing and business sectors back home.
Dr Mpango also reminded the Ambassador to advise Tanzanians in Japan to respect the laws and regulations of the host country in order to uphold the good image of Tanzania.
The VP called for the promotion of Kiswahili language in Japan, including exploring opportunities for Tanzanian language teachers and interpreters.
Moreover, he underscored the importance of being equipped with key national reference documents such as the Tanzania Development Vision 2050, the ruling party’s manifesto and accurate data from the National Bureau of Statistics to guide the Ambassador in his duties.
In response, Ambassador-designate Anderson Mutatembwa extended his gratitude to President Samia for entrusting him with the responsibility of representing Tanzania in Japan. He pledged to safeguard the country’s interests and to strengthen the long-standing relationship between Tanzania and Japan.
