Japanese Ambassador to Peru Dr. Kazuyuki Katayama on Wednesday expressed confidence that the
bilateral relations of friendship and cooperation between both nations, as strategic partners, will be further strengthened in the coming years.
The
message came within the framework of the National Day of Japan on the occasion of celebrations for the birthday of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito (February 23).
On this occasion, Ambassador Katayama noted that 2023 will mark the 150th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations.
"Peru was the first country in Latin America to establish diplomatic relations with Japan. With the support of all of you, we will prepare a series of significant and memorable events," he wrote in a document which also reviews the main milestones of his current tenure as ambassador to the South American country.
Peru-Japan: Historical ties
The diplomat stressed that in 2024 Peru will host the APEC summit —for the third time since the creation of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum in 1989— adding that in 3 years the
Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan will be held. Both activities will serve to boost a greater rapprochement between the two nations.
"Peru is the third country in the world with the largest number of Japanese immigrants and descendants. Among them are many from my homeland, Hiroshima," he added.
In this regard, the envoy assured that he feels "proud that the Nikkei, who are Peruvians of Japanese descent, are fulfilling a great role in Peruvian society and being a bridge which unites both countries."
"More than 1 year and 5 months have passed since I arrived in Peru," the ambassador said, welcoming the fact that diplomatic activities are gradually being reactivated in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Thanks to the warm welcome and great support that the Peruvian people give me, my work and life in Peru are prospering more and more," he noted.
Diversity and cultural richness
Peru is rich in history and cultural heritage, the ambassador stressed, before listing the places he had visited in this country: Arequipa, Caral, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Huaral, Pachacamac, Pisco, Nazca, Iquitos, Tacna, Moquegua, Puno, Chiclayo, Trujillo, and Cajamarca, among others.
"Once again, I was amazed by Peruvian society and by the diversity and richness of its culture," Dr. Katayama highlighted.
"Besides, Peruvian gastronomy is one of the best in the world, and I am very lucky to enjoy it at world-famous restaurants," he added.
In relation to the efforts to confront COVID-19, the ambassador indicated that the Japanese Government has so far provided its Peruvian counterpart with support worth around US$12 million.
"I hope that this year will be the year of the overcoming the pandemic," he expressed.
Dr. Katayama's message also mentioned that "bilateral cooperation is being promoted both in the field of prevention of natural disasters, such as earthquakes and tsunamis, as well as in the economic, social, and cultural spheres, among others."
Likewise, the diplomat recalled that in 2021 Peru's Independence Bicentennial was commemorated. In addition, general elections were held and the new Government took office.
"In Japan, the
new Government of Prime Minister Kishida also began. I hope that, under the new leaders, the bilateral relationship as 'strategic partners' will be further strengthened," Dr. Katayama expressed.
"To conclude, I offer my prayers for the health of His Majesty the Emperor, as well as the further development of our bilateral relations with Peru and for the health of all of you," he wrote.
(END) CCH/MVB
Published: 2/23/2022