The Antigua and Barbuda delegation with Prime Minister Koizumi View photo »

Prime Minister the Hon. Baldwin Spencer and the Prime Minister of Japan Junichiro Koizumi, on Thursday were engaged in lengthy discussions on wide ranging issues of concern to both nations.

Prime Minister Koizumi, who indicated that he has learnt that Antigua and Barbuda's main industry is tourism, advised Antigua and Barbuda to immediately commence marketing the country in Japan and suggested that sustained marketing will result in increased number of travelers knowing about the Caribbean island and wanting to visit.

He pointed out that every year over 16 million Japanese travel abroad and Antigua and Barbuda should market itself in Japan to capture a share of that huge traveling market.

Prime Minister Spencer updated the Japanese Prime Minister on the country's marketing strategy along with its position on a number of issues ranging from United Nations reform to the sustainable management of the world's resources.

Both leaders also spent a great deal of time discussing sports, tourism, natural disaster management and fisheries. The Japanese leader pledged his country's continued cooperation with Antigua and Barbuda in its developmental efforts.

Both countries have signaled their intention to sign a technical cooperation agreement after approval from the respective Ministries of Foreign Affairs.

Digital photos by Maurice F. Merchant