Mali Celebrates Emperor Naruhito’s Birthday, Highlights Strengthening Ties with Japan

Bamako, February 12, 2026 - Abdoulaye Diop, Malian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, participated in celebrations marking the birthday of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito of Japan on Thursday, February 12, 2026, in Bamako, at the invitation of Japanese Ambassador Yukuo Murata. The event was also attended by the President of the Economic, Social, Environmental and Cultural Council. On behalf of Mali’s highest authorities, Minister Diop conveyed wishes for health, happiness, and prosperity to His Majesty, the Imperial Family, and the Government and People of Japan. He praised the Japanese model, noting its harmonious integration of culture, technology, and modernity, and its focus on human capital development, particularly as Mali marks 2026-2027 as the Years of Education and Culture. Both countries also highlighted the achievements of Professor Abdoulaye Djimdé, recipient of the Hideyo Noguchi Prize for Africa in medical research, recognizing his contribution to the fight against malaria. The event further underscored the strengthening of bilateral cooperation between Mali and Japan, with ongoing projects in security, agriculture, health, education, access to drinking water, justice, and infrastructure. Minister Diop concluded by commending the resilience of the Malian people amid ongoing complex challenges.