Japan's Ambassador to Samoa Ryotaro Suzuki presented his credentials to the Head of State of Samoa, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II on Thursday morning.

Mr Suzuki was accompanied by Kazuo Tsukada, the Deputy Head of Mission to the presentation of credentials ceremony. 

Samoa and Japan have enjoyed cordial relations since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1973. During the credential ceremony, Mr Suzuki stated, “The Government and the People of Japan attach great importance to further strengthening the relationship with Samoa for mutual benefits of both countries.”

Ambassador Suzuki pledged his commitment to working with the people and government of Samoa to strengthen bilateral ties and expand the scope of cooperation between Samoa and Japan. 

Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II in his responding remarks confirmed the growing relations between Samoa and Japan. 

“Our relationship has developed over the years demonstrating a genuine and enduring partnership with mutual benefits,” he said

The Head of State stated that he is confident that the appointment of Mr Suzuki will continue to enhance and further strengthen the existing relations between Samoa and Japan. 

Mr Suzuki served as the Ambassador of Japan to Iceland before his current appointment. 

Mr Suzuki also served as the First Secretary and later as Counsellor at the Embassy of Japan in Canada, and later as Minister at the Embassy in Sweden, as Minister at the Embassy in Laos and as Minister to the Permanent Mission of Japan to the OECD. 

Mr Suzuki graduated from the University of Cambridge with a Masters in International Law and from the University of Tokyo, Faculty of Law. Mr Suzuki arrived in Apia on Monday 16 December 2024 as successor to Senta Keisuke.