On 26 August, Hon. Kamikawa Yoko, Chair of JPFP, Hon. Kikawada Hitoshi, Secretary General of JPFP, and Hon. Terata Shizuka, Director of JPFP, submitted a formal request to State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Miyaji Takuma, urging an increase in Japan’s contributions to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) for FY2026.

At the outset, Hon. Kamikawa highlighted that, amid rising expectations from African countries following TICAD9, Japan should provide full support to UNFPA and IPPF, which play critical roles in the population field, and contribute to the international community through public-private partnerships. Hon. Kikawada then pointed out that the suspension of U.S. contributions in this sector has created a critical situation and emphasized the continuing importance of Japan’s support, including for the situation in Afghanistan. Hon. Terata stressed that, facing growing domestic “country-first” opinions, support for international cooperation aligns with Japan’s interests and expressed her commitment to actively contribute through JPFP activities.

In response, Hon. Miyaji expressed his appreciation for JPFP’s vigorous activities and, drawing on his own experience visiting African countries, highlighted the importance of addressing rapidly changing population dynamics, advancing SRHR initiatives, and ensuring that assistance reaches the most vulnerable populations in a targeted and effective manner. In turn, JPFP leadership reaffirmed their commitment to work proactively across party lines to meet the heightened international expectations following TICAD9.

Courtesy Call on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Miyaji by JPFP Chair Kamikawa and Leadership
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website：https://www.mofa.go.jp/mofaj/press/release/pressit_000001_02641.html(Japanese)