Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzō Abe, has formally extended an invitation to the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Economic Affairs, Planning and Social Security, Hon. Dr. Kenny D. Anthony, to pay an official visit to his country.

Dr. Anthony has graciously accepted the offer.

Japan is an important diplomatic partner to Saint Lucia, having extended direct investment and technical cooperation in a number of areas, most notably fisheries and education.

Dr. Anthony said that it is a great privilege to be invited to pay an official visit to Japan.

"I regard this invitation as a special honor. It gives me an opportunity to reaffirm the close ties between Japan and Saint Lucia to say “thank you” to the Government and people of Japan for the support that has been extended to our island and our people over the years," said Dr. Anthony.

The Government of Saint Lucia has enjoyed diplomatic relations with the Government of Japan since 1980. Since then, there have been three official visits by sitting Prime Ministers to Japan.

Prime Minister Anthony is expected to travel to Japan in early September.

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