Faisal Khalaf

Soft power is a necessary global requirement. The implementation of this kind of power is important. One of the basic tools of soft power is to disseminate science, culture, health and other fields all over the world. Countries are no longer measured neither by dimensions nor by population. Today, it is measured by the soft power and Japan is known nowadays as one of the very advanced countries in soft power.

In 2018, Japan ranked fifth according to the Global Soft Power ranking, making it the first Asian country to reach the top five list.

In Saudi Arabia, Japan’s soft power is prevalent in many books, cars, tech products, and food.

Japan’s soft power started spreading throughout the world after the disaster of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima.

Most notably, Japanese restaurants introduced the culture through sushi, miso soup and other dishes. The introduction of Japanese food was not by chance but based on a well-thought-out plan.

The Japanese Broadcasting Corporation NHK is also offered in more than one language. The broadcaster offers lessons on its website to help those interested learn Japanese.

In Saudi Arabia, I think that we are coming to be the soft power in the world, with the Ministry of Culture is progressing in its field.

We all have to stand with the Saudi Arabian Minister of Culture, Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, we support him every step, so that we are one of the ten strongest soft powers in the world. All Saudi Ministries play an important part in the vision.

Soft power is a collective action, not an individual one that requires patience, intelligence and strength.

• Dr. Faisal Khalaf is a dentist, writer and a member of various charities, who is interested in culture and Art.