Japan and IPPF Jointly Confirmed Continued Strategic Partnership

From 7-8 May 2026, Maria Antonietta Alcalde, the new Director General of IPPF, visited Japan for the first time since taking office. She held policy consultations with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and paid a courtesy call on Dr Ayano Kunimitsu, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan.

State Minister Kunimitsu stated:

“Given my own background as a doctor, I have a particularly deep understanding of the importance of SRHR globally. As Japan prioritises the promotion of global health, particularly UHC, in its foreign policy, Japan will continue to cooperate with IPPF, which has been active at the grassroots level, in various countries to demonstrate evidence and provide more valuable support.”

Maria Antonieta Alcalde said:

“As the global situation regarding SRHR is changing significantly, and there are fears that the achievements we have built up so far may be undermined, I would like to express my deep gratitude for the support provided to IPPF by Japan, a long-standing key partner and champion of UHC. IPPF and its Member Associations will further strengthen our partnership with Japan to continue protecting the SRHR of women, girls and vulnerable people worldwide.”