A senior delegation of parliament representatives from Japan paid a visit to Ethiopia in the first week of July to discuss joint health initiatives. Extensive conversations were held with the Minister of Health of Ethiopia, Dr. Mekdes Daba, the State Minister of Health and high-level experts from the Global Fund. Discussions centered on initiatives supported by the government of Japan including improving maternal and child health care, reducing malaria and tuberculosis as well as other health initiatives under GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance. The value of cooperation and support from the government of Japan was underscored while emphasizing Japan's vast experience in digital healthcare infrastructure development. Noting Japan's long-standing experience in the health sector, Dr Daba said that improving community health information management systems was a key priority, and collaboration and support could be streamlined accordingly.

Experts from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance were also part of this mission which by and large looked into maternal and child health care, GAVI programs and efforts to reduce malaria and tuberculosis.

Similarly, the delegation held a courtesy call with the incoming Ethiopia Country Office Director, Ms Dragana Strinic at Save the Children Ethiopia office.