Arab News

TOKYO: Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi on Wednesday appointed the Japanese band GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE as a goodwill ambassador to the United Arab Emirates.

Motegi received the group on Wednesday at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where an official certificate of appointment was delivered in the presence of His Excellency Khaled Al Ameri, the country's ambassador to Japan.

Motegi said at the meeting: "This appointment is in line with Japan's hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games this year, while the UAE will host the Dubai Expo2020.”

He pointed out that the band is popular outside of Japan, as well, and asked them to be an effective force in promoting relations between Japan and the United Arab Emirates.

Motegi added that the United Arab Emirates is an important and strategic partner of Japan in the Middle East and that he is looking forward to the role that GENERATIONS will play in enhancing bilateral relations.

For his part, the ambassador thanked the Japanese foreign minister and the members of the ministry, saying that appointing an ambassador of goodwill to the UAE is an indication of their distinguished bilateral relations and is also an important step in implementing their comprehensive strategic partnership, particularly in the cultural field.

Members of the band said that they will make efforts to contribute to strengthening relations with the United Arab Emirates through cultural and artistic projects.

A statement issued by the Japanese Foreign Ministry stated that the group will participate in public relations activities and the promotion of friendship between Japan and the United Arab Emirates.