Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh that Japan plans to provide patrol ships to the northeast African nation to help its coast guard improve maritime security.
The first Japanese prime minister to visit Djibouti, Abe on Tuesday toured the operating base built on the northern side of Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport in 2011, where Maritime Self-Defense Force personnel are stationed to fight piracy.
"It is vital for Japan to protect waters in the region. And it is essential for the international community to ensure peace, stability and prosperity," Abe told MSDF personnel as he stressed the importance of Japan's contribution to maritime security.