Japan is 'best partner' for Africa in solar, hydrogen: U.N. agency head

TOKYO -- Japan represents the "best partner" for Africa in solar and hydrogen power development, the chief of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization said on Monday, urging more private-sector investment into the continent.

UNIDO Director-General Gerd Mueller and Ken Saito, Japan's minister of economy, trade and industry, signed a joint declaration here that day touting the longtime cooperation between UNIDO and the ministry. Japan contributed a record 50 billion yen ($311 million) to the organization last year to help companies doing business in Ukraine and developing and emerging countries in the Global South.