Mata'afa envisages

closer Japan ties

Prime Minister of Western Samoa, Fiame Mata’afa, gave an indication of the growing trade links between Japan and the Pacific Islands when he spoke recently of his forthcoming visit to Japan (scheduled for June 17 to June 22). He said: “Trade between Western Samoa and Japan has been increasing over recent years and the healthy interest that Japanese investors have been taking in the country encourages me to think that the relationship will be come stronger in time. ‘The important part which Japan is playing in the world today and its realistic and generous approach to the problems of the developing countries make it equally important for us to get to know Japan better.”

Unofficial reports in Apia suggest that the Prime Minister’s visit to Japan might lead to aid—particularly in the field of heavy equipment