Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Hisashi Matsumoto met yesterday with Mrs. Retno L. P. Marsudi, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy on Water, in Tokyo. During the 20-minute meeting, Matsumoto emphasized Japan’s commitment to addressing global water and sanitation issues, particularly through collaboration with the UN, including the upcoming UN Water Conference in 2026.
Mrs. Retno highlighted the urgent challenges of water scarcity and pollution, expressing hope for Japan’s leadership in global water initiatives. Both sides also discussed the increasing severity of water-related disasters, such as floods and droughts, exacerbated by climate change. Matsumoto underscored Japan’s readiness to share its expertise in disaster risk reduction and water infrastructure development.
The meeting reinforced the importance of international cooperation in tackling water-related challenges, with a focus on disaster resilience and sustainable solutions.
