Посол - Выступления

Your Excellences, distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is my great pleasure to welcome all of you today and celebrate together the birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. His Majesty is in good health and will soon turn 81years old.

This year’s Japan-Russian relations have assumed complicated aspects due to the influence of the Ukraine situation. Under these complicated aspects, dialogue has played a significant role. For example, in September this year “Japan – Russia Forum 2014” was held in Moscow. A great number of people from various fields took part in this forum and had animated discussions. Furthermore, political dialogue at the highest level has been continued. In November this year the Japan - Russian summit meeting was held during the APEC Summit Meeting in Beijing. Two leaders held a useful exchange of views on bilateral as well as international issues. They also agreed that the preparations should be started to realize the visit to Japan of President Putin at an appropriate time next year.

I would like to stress that the good and stable relations between the neighboring countries Japan and Russia are important not only for the interests of both countries but also for the interests of the Asian Pacific region. From this standpoint, despite the possible divergence in positions on some issues, Japan will continue the dialogue and work together with Russia.

As for today’s reception, I should like to mention that the Japanese style food “WASHOKU” has been registered as UNESCO intangible cultural heritage and thanks to the cooperation from many Japanese companies in Moscow and also the demonstration by the sushi-chefs, today we can offer “WASHOKU” and Japanese drinks. Please try and enjoy them. It’s my pleasure if you could feel Japan closer on this occasion.

Now let me propose a toast for the Eighty one-year-old Birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan, and good health and happiness of all of you here in this hall. KAMPAI!