Amin Abbas

ABU DHABI: The Embassy of Japan in Abu Dhabi hosted a reception on the occasion of the Japanese Emperor Naruhito’s 65th birthday on Feb. 26.

At InterContinental Abu Dhabi, guests were invited on behalf of the Japanese Ambassador to the UAE OKANIWA Ken to celebrate the occasion with traditional Japanese foods and performances.

The event was attended by Ahmed Al Sayegh, Minister of State as well senior officials of the UAE Government, diplomats, business leaders of Japanese and Emirati companies.

The event involved Japanese companies setting up booths, including Charteraise, Yatsudoki, Crown Melon, Yakult and REJECT.

Ambassador Okaniwa gave a speech at the beginning of the event, thanking guests for their attendance.

He recalled the visit by Emperor Naruhito in 1995. He wished the further strengthening of friendship between the Imperial Family and the Ruling Families of the UAE.

He also noted cooperation between Japan and the UAE was deepening across various fields such as international affairs, defense, economy, environment, culture, education and science and technology.

Ambassador Okaniwa highlighted the upcoming Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025 as another opportunity to strengthen the bilateral relations with many visitors expected to visit Japan for this event.

The reception also featured an engaging performance by the SHOTEN Dubai Taiko Drummers.

The guests at the reception got the opportunity for getting Japanese Calligraphy painting by renowned Japanese calligraphy master Juichi Yoshikawa.

The Ikebana Ohara School was also present with their Japanese floral arrangements at the reception.

Sushi was served by Japanese chefs with authentic ingredients like fish and rice imported fresh from Japan.