Monday, 14th March, 2011:- The 2012 Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, together with some leading members of the party, called on the Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E Keiichi Katakami on Monday afternoon.

Nana Addo’s visit was to sympathise with the Japanese people and to express the condolence of his party and himself to the victims of the quake and tsunami disaster last week.

In a brief speech, Nana Addo said, “what is happening in your country today is a big tragedy and a catastrophe and the NPP came here today to sympathise with the Japanese people in this very difficult moment and we humbly ask that you extend our sympathies to Emperor Akihito, Prime Minister Naoto Kan, the government and the people of Japan. We are indeed very sorry for what is going on and we really feel for you and the Japanese people.”

He continued, “the death toll, which the news put at about 15,000, is a huge scare and very unfortunate and all well meaning people across the world must join hands and resources to help your country get back on its feet.”

Nana Addo further noted, “our countries, Ghana and Japan, share very strong ties which go a long way and the NPP thought it necessary to come over to sympathise with you in these very trying times.”

He concluded, by drawing inspiration from the Japanese spirit: “I know the Japanese people are a very resilient and determined people and I know you will get back on your feet very soon.”

On his part, Mr. Keiichi Katakami thanked Nana Addo and the leadership of the NPP for “this very warm gesture and on behalf of the Japanese people we want to thank you very much for coming to sympathise with us as we go through these difficult moments.”

He continued that “about 15,000 people, as you said, have died as a result of the massive tsunami, with one whole town in the northern part of the country washed out completely.”

The Ambassador concluded, “I appreciate your kindness to take time out of your busy schedule to come and sympathise with us and I assure you that the Prime Minister and the people of Japan will hear about your kind visit.”

Accompanying Nana Addo to the Japanese Embassy were NPP 1st Vice National Charman, Mr. Fred Oware, Campaign Manager, Mr. Boakye Agyarko, Communications Director and MP for Okaikoi South, Nana Akomea, MP for Weija and Minority Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayokor Botway, Ghana’s former Ambassador to Japan, H.E Adjei Bawuah and Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, MP for Kwadaso.

Source: Herbert Krapa Press Secretary -- NPP Communications Directorate NPP Headquarters, Asylum Down. Accra.

Dep. Director: Curtis Perry K. Okudzeto (024-9679008)