JAKARTA, 25 November 2025 – Ambassador Yonetani Koji today presented his Letter of Credence as Japan’s Ambassador to ASEAN to Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat.
Secretary-General Dr. Kao congratulated Ambassador Yonetani Koji on assuming his new post. He highlighted the significance of the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, noting it as one of ASEAN’s most dynamic and comprehensive partnerships, advancing peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. He also appreciated Japan’s steadfast support for ASEAN Community-building efforts, ASEAN Centrality and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP). Dr. Kao affirmed the ASEAN Secretariat’s readiness to continue working closely with Ambassador Yonetani Koji and the Mission of Japan to ASEAN to further strengthen ASEAN-Japan cooperation.
Ambassador Yonetani Kojithanked Secretary-General Dr. Kao for the warm welcome. He expressed his honour to assume the role as Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN. He looked forward to working with ASEAN Member States and the ASEAN Secretariat in advancing the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during his term of office.
Ambassador Yonetani Koji succeeds Ambassador Kiya Masahiko, who completed his tenure on 15 November 2025.