Dr M begins working visit to Japan, set for packed programme

TOKYO: Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has arrived here Sunday (June 10) on a three-day working visit.

 

The aircraft carrying the Malaysian leader touched down at Haneda International Airport at about 4.55pm Sunday.

 

On hand to welcome him at the airport were Japan's Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Iwao Horii, Japanese Ambassador to Malaysia Makio Miyagawa as well as Malaysian Ambassador to Japan Datuk Ahmad Izlan Idris.

 

Dr Mahathir, who is here to attend the 24th International Conference on the Future of Asia, or Nikkei Conference, is accompanied by his wife Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali.

 

He will also have a courtesy call on Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Tuesday (June 12).

 

This is his first trip abroad after becoming Malaysia's seventh Prime Minister last month.

 

Dr Mahathir told reporters that he would be discussing with Abe, among others, the Look East policy as well as investments from Japan.

 

His itinerary in Japan comprises a long list of events, meetings and media interviews, starting with tonight's dinner with members of the Malaysian community in this country, reports Bernama.

 

At the Nikkei Conference, Dr Mahathir's speech will be on the theme 'Keeping Asia Open - How to Achieve Prosperity and Stability'.

 

Another highlight of Dr Mahathir's visit is a series of discussions with Japanese business leaders and banking industry representatives.

 

He is also expected to deliver a speech on the theme 'Malaysia-Japan Relationship Under the New Administration of Tun Dr Mahathir' at an event at Japan's House of Councillors.

 

The Prime Minister will also have a session with the Japanese media at the Japan National Press Club Dialogue.

 

Dr Mahathir will leave for home on Tuesday (June 12) afternoon.