GRIPS Development Forum is pleased to organize a webinar on Japanese economic diplomacy in Africa, inviting Ms. Céline Pajon, Research Fellow and Head of Japan Research at the French Institute of International Relations (IFRI) as a main speaker. She published the report “Assessing the Japanese economic diplomacy in Africa under the Abe administration between its strategic priorities and realities on the ground” in December 2020 by IFRI.

Rising geopolitical tensions and the COVID-19 crisis are affecting the deepening of partnership between Japan and African countries. Under such complex situations, we consider it useful to discuss the achievements and challenges stemming from Japan’s recent policy initiatives, including the “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” (FOIP) and its implications for Africa, then explore pragmatic ways to enhance strategic and economic partnerships with Africa. We also hope that the discussions will be informative for the upcoming Eighth Tokyo International Conference for African Development (TICAD VIII) planned for 2022 in Tunisia.

Registration: Send email to Ms. Uesu (s-uesu@grips.ac.jp) and Ms. Iwata (yu-iwata@grips.ac.jp) stating your name, title and organization by 9th April. An invitation email will be sent to you in advance. Questions and comments will be taken via Chat during the webinar.