Davao City welcomed a delegation from Hitachinaka, Japan, led by Deputy Mayor Kouji Yoshidomi, who expressed keen interest in exploring local growth and economic interchange opportunities during their courtesy call on Davao City Vice Mayor Atty. J. Melchor Quitain Jr.
The meeting took place on February 13 at the Sangguniang Panlungsod’s newly established Councilor’s Lounge, marking a renewed engagement between the two cities.
April Marie Dayap, Officer-in-Charge of the Davao City Investment Promotion Center (DCIPC), underscored the significance of the visit, emphasizing the city’s commitment to fostering economic development with Hitachinaka.
“We are excited to explore new opportunities for collaboration, economic growth, and mutual development,” Dayap stated, expressing optimism about future discussions and partnerships between the two cities.
Deputy Mayor Yoshidomi also conveyed his hopes for future economic cooperation. He recalled that in 2018 and 2019, the Hitachinaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry signed an economic friendship agreement with both the Mindanao Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry. However, he noted that the COVID-19 pandemic had hindered further interactions.
“We look forward to the future in the development of our city and Davao City,” Yoshidomi said, emphasizing the importance of reigniting discussions on economic exchange.
Vice Mayor Quitain expressed gratitude for the visit, highlighting its role in strengthening ties between the two cities.
“We are looking forward, Deputy Mayor and Vice Mayor, now that COVID is over, we can go full blast and hopefully we can collaborate in future projects,” Quitain remarked.
The visit follows a similar diplomatic engagement last month when Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya paid a courtesy call on Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte, signaling Japan’s continued interest in deepening relations with the city.
