Arab News Japan

TOKYO: In commemorating the 50th anniversary of establishing the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) office in Tunisia in 1975, a significant milestone in the history of international cooperation, the Embassy of Tunisia in Japan on February 21 hosted a reception to honor the Japanese volunteers who have dedicated their efforts to Tunisia for over five decades, contributing to sustainable development and strengthening cultural ties between the two nations.

The reception brought distinguished guests, including senior officials from JICA, the Japanese Foreign Ministry, and representatives from the Japan-Tunisia Friendship Association. 

A diverse group of volunteers spanning different generations also participated, sharing heartfelt testimonies about their experiences in Tunisia. They reflected on the “deep friendships they forged with Tunisians, the warm hospitality they received, and the lasting impact of their work—professionally and personally.” They told stories of personal growth and experiences in Tunisia. 

Japanese musicians performed a melody that blended Tunisian and Japanese musical traditions by enhancing the evening’s ambiance. Participants said this unique cultural exchange underscored the relationship between the two countries, a relationship further strengthened by the event.

During the event, the Ambassador of Tunisia to Japan, Ahmed Chafra, delivered a keynote address, paying tribute to JICA’s instrumental role in supporting Tunisia’s economic and social development. He particularly emphasized the role of the Japanese volunteers as ambassadors of friendship and cooperation, whose contributions have left an indelible mark across various sectors. Their work, he noted, goes beyond sharing expertise, serving as a testament to the deep understanding and collaboration between Tunisia and Japan. The ambassador hailed their work, which made a significant impact, and said their dedication was a key factor in the success of JICA’s mission in Tunisia.

The event also featured a photo exhibition chronicling significant milestones of Japanese volunteer work in Tunisia from the 1970s to now. This visual journey not only highlighted the evolution of bilateral cooperation but also served as a powerful testament to the commitment of both nations to shared progress, inspiring hope for the future, participants said.

The embassy said this celebration reaffirmed the Tunisia-Japan partnership, emphasizing both nations’ dedication to advancing cooperation across diverse fields. “It was a renewed testament to the profound bonds of friendship and mutual respect of Tunisia and Japan, paving the way for even greater collaboration and fostering a sense of optimism for the future.’