H.E. Mr. Ryotaro Suzuki presented his Letters of Credence to the Head of State of
Samoa, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II, during the Credentials ceremony
held at the residence of the Head of State at Vailele this morning, accrediting His
Excellency as the resident Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to
Samoa. H.E. Suzuki was accompanied by Mr. Kazuo Tsukada, 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, H.E Mr. Ryotaro 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 that exists between Samoa and Japan. “Our relationship has
developed over the years demonstrating a genuine and enduring partnership with mutual
benefits.” The Head of State stated that he is confident that the appointment of H.E.
Suzuki will continue to enhance and further strengthen the existing relations between
Samoa and Japan.
H.E. Mr. Ryotaro Suzuki served as the Ambassador of Japan to Iceland prior to his
current appointment. Mr. Suzuki also served as First Secretary and later as Counsellor at
the Embassy of Japan in Canada, as a Counselor 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, LL.M. in
International Law and the University of Tokyo, Faculty of Law. H.E. Suzuki arrived in
Apia on Monday 16 December 2024 as successor to former Ambassador H.E Senta
Keisuke.