Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Japan’s Crown Prince and Crown Princess Akishino visited Saudi Arabia’s Pavilion at the Osaka-Kansai Expo on Thursday, in the company of Saudi Ambassador to Japan Dr. Ghazi Faisal Binzagr.

“We were deeply honored by the visit of their Imperial Highnesses,” Ambassador Binzagr told Arab News Japan. “It was a beautiful visit.”

The Ambassador elaborated on how much they had enjoyed the music of the Oud, which was being played as the imperial guests entered the courtyard of the Pavilion and which echoed throughout the building owing to the design of the walls and corridors that amplifies sound.

“The imperial couple also enjoyed Saudi coffee and various selection of dates,” Ambassador Binzagr said, adding that the variety and color of Saudi dates is influenced by the minerals in the soil of each region where they were grown in the Kingdom.

Binzagr said they had discussed the similarities in the culture of Saudi Arabia and Japan, adding that despite the cultures appearing different, they shared a deep pride in their heritage and history and both countries’ ability to link the East and West.

He added that Japan is authentic with what it has but is also able to blend it with outside best practices with such great openness. He said that he believes this makes for something very special that Saudi also shares with Japan.

“We both value our roots and connectivity, and we both seek to celebrate balance in everything we do.”

At the Pavilion, the imperial couple viewed the plan for Riyadh Expo 2030 and indicated they were keen to visit at that time or even before, Ambassador Binzagr said.

“We are keenly looking forward to more visits between members of Japan’s Imperial Family and members of our Royal Family of Saudi Arabia,” Ambassador Binzagr said:

“Such visits add a special dimension to an already special relationship.”