


DUBAI: The Japanese Consulate in Dubai celebrated the 65th birthday of Emperor Naruhito on Tuesday, hosted by Dubai’s Consul-General IMANISHI Jun.
Guests, including diplomats and businesspeople, were invited to commemorate the occasion, along with the UAE’s Deputy Chief of Police Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, who was also in attendance.
Imanishi gave a speech expressing his gratitude to all the Japanese companies who were showcasing their products at the reception. Some of the companies included Kinokuniya, Olympus, Epson and more.
The Consul-General said the relationship between the UAE and Japan is built on trust and is set to continue strengthening thanks to the collaborations between the two nations in various fields.
“In the 1990’s, there were about 1000 Japanese citizens, today there are 5000 people. Similarly, in the 90’s there were a handful of Japanese restaurants, there are now over 300 of them,” he said. “This remarkable progress is a testament to the exchange between both countries.”
Last year, Imanishi said, there were multiple visits between officials including Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries SAKAMOTO Tetsushi and Minister in charge of Economic Revitalization SHINDO Yoshitaka from Japan to Dubai.
Similarly, member of Dubai’s ruling family Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed Al Maktoum visited Japan in 2024.
“These exchanges further underscore the strengthened ties between the two nations,” the Consul said.
He also invited guests to attend the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, which is set to take place from April until October.
Imanishi revisited history, explaining that in 1995, Emperor Naruhito visited the UAE and attended the opening ceremony of the Consulate General of Japan.
A special performance was given by Shoten Taiko Drummers, the Middle East’s first Japanese Taiko Drumming performing group, along with Koto player Mai Taniguchi and Shakuhachi musician Kyle Kamal Helou.
Authentic Japanese cuisine was served to the guests with sushi and wagyu beef on the menu.