Japanese Embassy celebrates leader’s 65th birthday
The celebration of the birthday of the Emperor of Japan at the Embassy of Japan was a festive occassion with traditional Japanese fare and archers showing off their skills.
The 65th birthday of his majesty the Emperor of Japan, Naruhito, was celebrated at the Chancellery of the Embassy of Japan in Groenkloof on March 13.
A tribute was given to Japan’s leader by the ambassador of Japan, Fumio Shimizu, and Deputy Director General Qinisile Delwa from the South African government’s Department of Small Business Development.
Shimizu pointed out to members of the diplomatic and consular corps and other guests that Japan’s diplomacy is founded on the rule of law.
“I am encouraged to see that, under the leadership of President Cyril Ramaphosa, South Africa emphasises adherence to international law. Our shared commitment to this principle is vital for maintaining peace and resolving conflict worldwide,” said Fumio.
He paid homage to the South African National Defence Force members who lost their lives in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
This year marks the 115th year of Japan’s official relations with South Africa.
“As a long-standing friend, Japan is committed to remaining alongside South Africa during challenging times and we extend as much co-operation as possible.”
He referred to the emphasis his country puts on education and said Japan sends young Japanese volunteers to South African primary schools, supports TVET programmes and dispatches mathematics experts to the Department of Basic Education.
He said Japan remembers the support South Africa showed the country in sending a rescue team to affected areas, including a town named Ogatsu, following the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011.
In the realm of sports, nearly 40 South African rugby players are currently playing in Japan.
He said in addition there is a framework to invite young South Africans to come to Japan to teach English to Japanese students. So far, almost 1 000 South Africans have gone to Japan under this programme.
Delwa said Deputy President Paul Mashatile is scheduled to visit Japan soon.
“Business ties between Japan and South Africa are critical. Approximately 260 Japanese business offices are located in South Africa, contributing to around 150 000 jobs,” said Delwa.
She pointed out that not only were the two cultures intertwined but Japanese companies have invested R90-billion in South Africa and the Japanese industries trade R132-billion a year with South Africa. More than 5 500 Japanese tourists visited South Africa in 2023.
“We want to thank the Japanese Imperial family for the legacy of the values of unity, respect and resilience that have been passed on to us with our collaboration over the years.”
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