TOKYO: Six Japanese companies including Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd. have signed documents and contracts with local firms in Pacific island nations to help them tackle climate change and other challenges, Jiji Press learned Saturday.
Kawasaki Heavy has concluded a memorandum of understanding with a public utility company in Palau on the introduction of a power generator control system, in a bid to promote renewable energy.
Kanadevia Corp., formerly Hitachi Zosen Corp, will support the introduction of a desalination system using renewable energy in Papua New Guinea.
The Japanese companies also include a startup working on forest conservation and job creation through coffee farming.
The moves reflect Pacific island nations’ hopes for Japanese technology to address social issues, including ensuring the sustainability of their agriculture, forestry and fisheries industries.
Meanwhile, the Japanese government is seeking to strengthen its ties with Pacific island nations and increase its presence in the region at a time when China is increasing its influence there, including through the development of infrastructure such as seaports and airports.
Later this month, the Japanese government will organize a business event in Fiji that involves a total of 15 countries and regions. From Japan, 12 companies will participate in the event.
JIJI Press