Remarks by H.E. Mr. Kanji Fujiki, Ambassador of Japan to the UAE
At the National Day Reception, 24 November, 2015

24 November 2015

Excellencies,

ladies and gentlemen,

Assalamu aleikum. Welcome to the Japanese national day reception.

This year His Majesty the Emperor of Japan will turn 82 on the 23rd of December. It is my great pleasure and honor to celebrate His Majesty’s birthday with all of you tonight.

The history of friendship between the imperial and royal families of Japan and the UAE goes back to 1970. In that year His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, President of the UAE, then the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, visited Japan to open the Abu Dhabi pavilion at the Osaka World Expo, and met His Majesty the Emperor, then the Crown Prince of Japan. Keeping this long valuable history in mind, I will make an effort to further advance the cordial relationship between our two countries.

Since my arrival in the UAE this May, I have visited different parts of this country. Every time I made a visit, I was surprised to see how this country had achieved the remarkable development over the last few decades, and how it continues further developing.

Rich greenery of grass and trees grow on the soil where there was once nothing but desert. Well-developed streets are lined with skyscrapers and unique-shaped buildings. Also, the UAE attracts top-level talents and tourists from all over the world. I can’t help but respect the UAE, a country that has become a place of prosperity, dynamism, generosity, tolerance and safety under the great foresight and leadership of the past and current leaders of this country.

The Japan- UAE relationship entered a new era through the visit of Japanese Prime Minister Mr. Abe to this country two years ago, and the visit of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, to Japan last year.

The human exchange at the very top level of leadership has resulted not only in deepening the historical relationship in oil and gas trade but also in strengthening cooperation in various other fields such as education, science, technology, health, tourism, space development, finance, culture, sports and many others.

I would like to touch upon just two examples of the strong relationship between Japan and the UAE.

First example is the Emirati students studying in the Japanese School here in Abu Dhabi.

They now comprise one fourth of the school’s students and the ratio has been continuously increasing over the past ten years. Emirati and Japanese students with different cultural and social backgrounds are studying side by side, positively stimulating each other, and nurturing feeling of solidarity.

Second example is the Japanese community in this country.

The size of the Japanese community in the UAE is the largest among all the Japanese communities in the Middle East region. This is because the UAE has been highly recognized by Japanese people and industries in providing the most favorable living and business environment in this region.

These examples, I think, really represent mutual trust and friendship existing between our two nations. I feel so fortunate to serve as an Ambassador to this important country in this dynamic period of time.

In Japan’s history, it has always been a matter of great importance to secure energy sources for its survival and development. Today, Japan is the largest importer of oil from the UAE, and the UAE is the second largest exporter of oil to Japan. And this year, Japanese company INPEX was newly chosen for the onshore oil concession for the next 40 years. Therefore, it is certainly not too much to say that the UAE, having stably supplied Japan with precious natural resources based on long-term trust, is a true friend in need for the Japanese people. Japan would like to cherish this trustful and mutually beneficial relationship with the UAE for many years to come.

Excellencies,

ladies and gentlemen,

Tonight, Japanese chefs are ready to demonstrate preparing sushi. Also, you could try several halal Japanese foods, drinks and top quality Japanese pears from Ichikawa city in Japan. I hope you all enjoy the authentic taste of Japan tonight.

As you noticed, performers of Japanese traditional drum, wadaiko, are invited tonight. The sound of wadaiko is indispensible for traditional Japanese festivals to boost the feeling of solidarity and festivity. I hope that the powerful and dynamic sound of wadaiko will further strengthen the friendly ties between Japan and the UAE.

Thank you very much and shukran jazeelan.

(END)

H.E. Yoshihiko Kamo, Ambassador of Japan to the UAE

welcomed the 5th Annual Joint TRC-JCCP/Idemitsu Workshop at Takreer Reserch Center

11 February 2015

H.E. Jasem Ali Al Sayegh, Chief Executive Officer, Abu Dhabi Oil Refining Company (TAKREER)

Mr. Eiji Hiraoka, Special Counselor, Japan Cooperation Center Petroleum (JCCP)

Distinguished Guests

Ladies and Gentlemen

It is my pleasure to participate in the Annual Joint Workshop with all of you here today. This is the third time for me to be at the opening ceremony of this workshop together with H.E Jasem Al Sayegh in the past years. On each occasion I find myself fascinated and chained to this TRC event for their innovative presentations and lively and interactive discussions.

It is my strong belief that Takreer Research Center has become one of the successful models of cooperation between Japan and the UAE. The Government of Japan, the Japan Cooperation Center Petroleum (JCCP) and Idemitsu have provided the technical expertise and the practical know-how to Takreer Research Center. In addition, since 2006, Idemitsu has dispatched senior experts to help implement the work of the Center.

Furthermore, a considerable number of UAE trainees have been received in Japan to get the utmost knowledge and skills in the refining field.

I am glad to hear that this cooperation which lasts for almost a decade, has yielded an excellent result of improving the research capabilities of the Center in particular in the fields of catalysts evaluation, component analysis and process simulation.  Each and every improvement may be incremental, but when accumulated, they make a difference in upgrading the Center’s performance. I am confident that the expertise gained by the Center in these areas, will play a fundamental role in developing the refining industry in the UAE.

I would like to seize this opportunity to congratulate all personnel and entities on their efforts and the team work spirit in achieving such levels of success. The Japanese side appreciates the passion and trust given by the Center to this sophisticated and exemplary joint work of our two countries.  

Today’s workshop is also an example for the continuity of the joint cooperation. Since the inauguration of the first workshop in 2010, collaboration has expanded over the years focusing on the exchange of technical knowledge between Idemitsu and the Center. The latest know-how and techniques related to the refining industry, including the means to overcome the obstacles facing the refining process have been discussed in the past workshops. It is a great opportunity for participants and trainees to familiarize themselves with such technical issues. I am glad to witness that so many people are attending this workshop. Some of them are actually coming from overseas. Such participation will enrich and give more depth to the discussions.

Finally, I would like to express my appreciation to all the participants of this workshop for their invaluable presence here. I hope you all enjoy the workshop.

Thank you

Remarks by Ambassador Yoshihiko Kamo at the National Day Reception
26 November 2014, Hilton Abu Dhabi

26 November 2014

Her Excellency Dr. Maitha Salem Al Shamsi,
Distinguished Guests,

Al Salamu Alekom!

It is my pleasure to welcome you all this evening to celebrate the birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan, who will turn 81 years old on the 23rd of December 2014.

This year marks the third ruling term for His Highness President Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The President had visited Japan in his capacity as Abu Dhabi Crown Prince, inaugurating the Abu Dhabi Pavilion in the Osaka Expo 1970. Fifty years after Osaka, Dubai will host the Dubai Expo 2020. We are confident under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai will stage a fabulous show. By the way, in the same year, Tokyo will host the Olympic Games 2020. We welcome you all in Tokyo in 2020.

Last year Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan visited the UAE. This year His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, visited Tokyo. This year also has seen the 40th anniversary of the Japanese Embassy in Abu Dhabi and next year will observe the 20th anniversary of the Japanese Consulate General in Dubai.

These episodes reflect the deep rooted bilateral ties between Japan and the UAE. The Japan-UAE business relationship has been centered on oil, both in trade and production. We are vital trading partners each other. In regard to Abu Dhabi’s prime commodities, namely, oil and gas, Abu Dhabi continues to be a stable supplier, while Japan remains a reliable buyer. Luckily enough, Japan has, over the years, grown its engagement with Abu Dhabi and the rest of the UAE in much wider fields of business and commerce. As Japan’s Ambassador I am proud to see so many Patrols and Land Cruisers roll everywhere in the UAE and the Dubai Metro, symbol of Japanese technology, winning a larger than expected ridership after its 5 years’ flawless operation.

In improving our business environment further, we have sealed two important bilateral economic treaties this year. A nuclear cooperation treaty was enforced in July and a double taxation avoidance treaty has been concluded recently and will become effective by the end of this year. These treaties are highlighting our two countries’ commitment to our future business collaboration. Indeed Japan looks forward to winning an even more comprehensive partnership with the UAE, covering multi-layered horizons of human activities; people-to-people exchanges, from tourists to Jujitsu champions, innovative energy initiatives, from petroleum to renewables, and untapped Japan’s expertise, from education to the medical, to name a few.

Distinguished guests,

Shaikh Zayed founded the United Arab Emirate 43 years ago. His foresight echoed the spirit of the 21st century and turned his Arab nation into the showcase of globalization. Their openness, diversity and inclusiveness, through the policy of tolerance and moderation have made the UAE a dream land for many peoples in the world. 

If the UAE is the beacon of hope for all humanity, Japan is the flashing light into the dark. Japan’s role as a harbinger in addressing to some of the most serious socio-economic issues common to many modern nations is unique and genuine. While enduring the hardship of ageing, dwindling population and the deflationary economy Japan has accumulated good practices and bad examples for others to learn.

Japanese and Emiratis might seem to be an odd couple, differs in culture and appearance. But we share wisdom to turn our unlikeness into our strength. We value our complementarity and appreciate the other’s willingness to help friends. We take pride in this wonderful relationship and cherish it in the decades to come.

Shukran !

Remarks
by H.E. Yoshihiko Kamo, Ambassador of Japan to the UAE
at the Opening Reception of the SMBC Abu Dhabi Representative Office

21 October 2014

Mr. Hiroshi Minoura,
Vice Chairman, SMBC

H.E. Saeed Al Hamiz,
Assistant Governor for Banking Supervision, Central Bank of the UAE

Mr. Makoto Takashima,
Senior Managing Director, SMBC

Mr. Masahiko Oshima,
Managing Director and Head of EMEA Division, SMBC

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

It is my honor and privilege to join the Opening Reception of the Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Abu Dhabi Representative Office this evening, to congratulate Mr. Hiroshi Minoura and all other dedicated staff of The SMBC upon the launching of its business operation in Abu Dhabi.

As you all know, the company has been already very active in the UAE as it has opened its Dubai office since 2007, and I believe the establishment of its office in Abu Dhabi will further enhance its business fortune in this country, thanks to the encouraging environment granted by the fair policy set in force by the Central Bank of the UAE. This is all due to the wise leadership of H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai and H.H. General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahayn, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. 

The UAE and Japan have been developing excellent relationship, as exemplary oil trade partners, for many years. In the financial area too, we have deepened our ties; for example the Japan-UAE financial cooperation seminar was held in June 2014 in full cooperation with the Central Bank of the UAE. This timely seminar strengthened financial cooperation, as well as the overall partnership between our two countries. The opening of SMBC office in Abu Dhabi reflected on the growing momentum of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, projecting itself as another financial center in the UAE. With the planned introduction of the Abu Dhabi Financial Center, and additional opening of other new banks that would follow, Abu Dhabi could become a rival of Dubai as the hub of financial business in the GCC.

It is my hope that SMBC’s decision to open its Abu Dhabi office is an initiation for more Japanese projects and activities here in Abu Dhabi. It will give a strong signal to Japanese investors and companies for the safe and smooth business environment that Abu Dhabi offers. Moreover, the operation of the reputed SMBC in Abu Dhabi, will generate a two-way flow of benefits between Japan and the UAE. SMBC can provide its Abu Dhabi customers with excellent financial services, while they benefit from their direct exposure to the vibrant Abu Dhabi rapidly growing as a pole of globalization in the MENA region.

I reiterate my excitement and appreciation for SMBC’s coming to Abu Dhabi. SMBC is a positive addition to the Japanese business community in Abu Dhabi. I am certain, that this will lead to livening up and strengthening the local Japanese community as a whole.

Finally, it is my strong belief that the expansion of the company’s activity in Abu Dhabi will help facilitating the two countries’ strategic partnership and will contribute further to the development and diversification of UAE’s economy. I sincerely hope that the SMBC Abu Dhabi office will be most successful in their business endeavors and advance SMBC success even further in the UAE and beyond.

Thank you.

Remarks

by H.E. Yoshihiko Kamo,

Permanent Representative of Japan to IRENA at the Credential Ceremony

7 September 2014

H.E. Dr. Adnan Amin, Director-General of IRENA,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is my great honor to submit the credential as Permanent Representative of Japan to IRENA. The assignment of Permanent Representative symbolizes the appreciation and the expectation of the Government of Japan to IRENA.

Japan appreciates IRENA’s projects such as “Remap 2030”, “Global Atlas”, “Renewable Readiness Assessment” and “African Clean Energy Corridor”, which contribute effectively to global adoption of renewable energy. I also would like to congratulate IRENA upon the publication of “Rethinking Energy” today. Japan highly evaluates IRENA’s development to play a central role in the international community for the dissemination of the renewable energy.

To support these IRENA activities, Japan has contributed to IRENA in three areas, namely in the financial area through contribution to the core budget and voluntary contribution, in the Intellectual field through dispatching specialists to IRENA’s activities and in the human resources development sector by organizing training courses with IRENA. In these areas, Japan will continue to support IRENA.

Your Excellency,

Now, the 5th session of the Assembly is approaching to us. It is an honor for Japan to be designated as the President of the Assembly. I will make my utmost efforts for the success of the Assembly in cooperation with Your Excellency.

Thank You.

Remarks

by H.E. Yoshihiko Kamo, Ambassador of Japan to the UAE

at the Signing Ceremony Reception of the Agreement on Academic Exchange between Fujita Health University and UAE University

3 September 2014

H.E. Prof. Mohamed Al Baili, the Provost, Vice-Chancellor of UAE University,

Dr. Yuichiro Ono, Chairman of the board of Directors, Fujita Educational Institution,

Dr. Kiyotaka Hoshinaga, President of Fujita Health University,

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

It has been a pleasure for me to participate in the Signing Ceremony of the Agreement on Academic Exchange between Fujita Health University and UAE University this afternoon. I would like to congratulate Dr. Kiyotaka Hoshinaga,  H.E. Prof. Mohamed Al Baili and all other dedicated people upon the conclusion of the agreement between the two universities.

In this opportunity, I would like to emphasize the great significance of this agreement in the context of relations between Japan and the UAE. You may remember that H.E. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan paid the visit to the UAE in May last year and H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi reciprocated by his visit to Japan in February this year. Through these visits, the two countries renewed their commitment to strengthening the comprehensive partnership. Under their leadership, the two Governments are working to promote cooperation in wider range of areas. And in the said partnership, the medical cooperation is one of the priority areas to be covered, since we believe that Japan’s experiences in the field of medicine and health can be useful for the UAE’s development.

This is why the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan funded the student exchange program between Fujita Health University and UAE University organized by Emergency Assistance Japan. I am extremely happy to hear that under this program, four UAE University students successfully continued their studies in Fujita Health University in this summer. I expect that their experience in Japan enriches their academic career.

I must say, however, that this should only be a start. The two universities are expected to expand their exchange program in accordance with the agreement signed today. I sincerely hope that the cooperation just started flourishes in the coming years to yield great academic achievement.

Thank you.

Speech at Japan's Reception at "World Telecommunication Development Conference 2014"

2 April 2014

His Excellency Dr Hamadoun Touré, Secretary General of the ITU,

His Excellency Mr.  Mohamed Nasser Al-Ghanim,
Director General of the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority

Excellencies,
Distinguished delegates,
Ladies and gentlemen,

Good afternoon. At the beginning, I would like to express my deep appreciation for attending today’s reception here at the Dubai World Trade Center. It is my great pleasure, on behalf of the Government of Japan, to welcome all of you. 

This morning, I was saddened to hear that a big earthquake and tsunami hit Chile. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the disaster in the  stricken area.

Allow me to extend my great respect and gratitude to the ITU and the Government of the United Arab Emirates for hosting this well-organized meeting, the efforts made by every staff at this conference are unmistaken.

It is gratifying to note that telecommunication and radio wave have been well-managed and developed for all member states.  Thanks to the activities of the ITU, which Japan always contributed sincerely in terms of finance and human resources. It is great opportunity to extend respect and gratitude to Dr. Hamadoun Touré and his senior management team for the untiring efforts made to fulfill the ITU mission during the time of drastic changes in the telecommunication fields of today.  Japan is determined to continue its dynamic support for the activities of the ITU.

  During the Plenipotentiary Conference of the ITU to be held in Busan, the Republic of Korea, this October and November, ITU Member States are planning to discuss the key issues of the organization such as the four-year strategic plans, the Secretary-General election and other issues.

  As for the elections at this Plenipotentiary Conference, Japan has decided to seek for re-election to the ITU Council, as well as the candidacy of Dr. Yasuhiko Ito for re-election to the member of the Radio Regulations Board or the RRB.

  Since 1959, as a member of the Council, Japan has committed itself to fully supporting ITU to fulfill its objectives. I would appreciate your valuable support for Japan in the upcoming election to the Council so we can continue to make proactive and full contributions to ITU’s efforts in cooperation with other member states.

  With regard to the election of the members the RRB, Dr. Ito was elected as its member in 2010 thanks to the broad support from member states for receiving the highest number of votes in the Asian region. Dr. Ito is the Japan’s leading expert in the telecommunication field, who has 30 years’ experience in research, development and business engagement. Dr. Ito is well known for his robust knowledge, experience and good reputation and for sure no need to talk about his ability and talent which were demonstrated in his leadership in the past.  He skillfully and confidently chaired the ITU-R Study Group and the Radio communication Assembly, as we all know.

  For the aforementioned reasons, Japan presents Dr. Ito with confidence, re-emphasizing that he is very well qualified for this post with impeccable experience, ability and personality. I am sure that the re-election of Dr. Ito will greatly contribute to the fair management of the RRB and development of the ITU. I would appreciate your valuable support for Dr. Ito.

The Conference will continue for about two weeks. Today we are serving an array of Japanese food. And here we have a great company to talk with.  I hope you will enjoy our food and conversation and return to the afternoon session. Thank you very much for your attention.

4th Annual Joint TAKREER Research Center-Idemitsu Workshop Remarks by Yoshihiko Kamo, Ambassador of Japan to the UAE

23rd January 2014

Mr. Jasem Ali Al Sayegh, CEO of TAKREER
Mr. Morihiro Yoshida, Managing Director, JCCP
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is my great honor and privilege to be invited to participate in the 4th annual joint TRC-Idemitsu workshop today. Although the joint workshop was originally conceived as a bilateral meeting of our two countries, I can witness today that this workshop has grown to acquire a multilateral dimension with the participation of several VIPs and experts from other countries including Kuwait and France. I am most obliged to be part of this ceremony which gives me a chance to pay respect to Mr. Jasem Ali Al Sayegh for his leadership and commitment to excellence. In this connection I would like to avail this opportunity to congratulate all the people dedicated themselves to each and every project of the TAKREER Research Center on their success and achievement over the past years.

The historic multi-layered relationships of friendship and trust between Japan and the UAE are built over the years by the untiring efforts of the public and private sector of our two countries. Today’s workshop at the TRC is a clear symbol of our close and friendly ties and represents one of the best examples what we can achieve though our joint effort and collaboration. The Japan Cooperation Center, Petroleum has contributed actively to UAE oil industry since 1980s by providing the longstanding implementation of technical assistance and human interchange in the downstream sector of the oil industry. JCCP, together with Idemitsu Kosan Company and other private companies and institutions in Japan has taken initiatives in providing their technical expertise and know-how with the TRC team through their numerous on-the-job training programs, which has taken the TRC successfully to the third phase of its activities. It is my belief that young Emiratis with aspirations and enthusiasm hold the key to the future of the UAE. It is also my belief that the TRC and its activities hold the key to bringing up these young people.

Lastly, I would like to thank UAE University, Kyushu University, Kuwait Institute of Scientific Research, Axens and IFP Energies Nouvelles for making today’s event significant and successful. With your active participation, TRC’s projects get more engaging and moving forward. I wish TRC and its partners all the best in their future endeavors.

Thank you very much.

November 26, 2013, Abu Dhabi

His Excellency Dr. Hadef bin Jua’an Al Dhaheri,
Minister of Justice,
His Excellency Dr. Tariq Ahmed Ibrahim Al Hidan,
Assistant Minister for International Organization, Ministry of Foreign Affairs,
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good Evening! It is my honor to welcome you to Japan’s National Day Reception. Japan’s National Day is held each year in celebration of the birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. His Majesty will turn 80 on December 23rd, 2013. He is our constitutional monarch and the symbol of Japan and the Japanese people. His longevity and that of his family, arguably the longest blood line in existence on earth that has lasted over the past 1,600 years, is the source of our pride and anchor to our identity.

Japan, being an old country, our partnership with the UAE is rather new. But we take pride in the wonderful relationships of trust and friendship with the UAE that we have developed in a relatively short period of time. Japan is one of the first five countries to recognize the UAE when it was founded in 1971. Since then Japan has been enjoying friendly and mutually beneficial relations with the UAE. She has been consistently the largest buyer of UAE’s crude oil and even now 60% of UAE crude is exported to Japan.

Did you know that Japan has made a unique contribution to the UAE in her formative years? Today everybody admires Abu Dhabi as a clean, safe and functioning city. But nobody knows who designed the city. The credit should go to Mr. Katsuhiko Takahashi, Japanese architect who played a principal role in drawing the Master Plan of Abu Dhabi under the close guidance of Sheikh Zayed in the 1960s. His Master Plan transformed once a small fishing village into the most livable city in the world today. Sheikh Zayed got the right man for the job.

You may be surprised to hear that Sheikh Zayed made much of the Japanese technocrat in building his nation. Back then Japan could be his unsettling adversary as she wiped out the pearl fishing industry in the Emirates with her new invention of cultured pearls. But he was incredibly open-minded and forward looking. He was more interested in learning from the Japanese wisdom crystallized in cultured pearls than grudging over the other’s success. He was interested in importing the techniques of culturing pearls from Japan. But he never did that as it was discovered that his Emirate of Abu Dhabi was sitting on the huge reserves of even more precious “black pearls”.

Abu Dhabi can be called a man-made green paradise. Undoubtedly the treed streets and fields of Abu Dhabi is one of the most impressive achievements in the 20th century. The passion of Sheikh Zayed for planting trees echoed in the heart of Mr. Shigeyasu Tamaei, who came to Um Al Quwain in 1980 as fishery expert of the Japan International Cooperation Agency. He observed the local marine eco-system closely by making numerous site trips and found out that planting mangrove trees in the shallow water was the best way to grow fish stock in the local environment. This drove him to devote himself to growing mangrove. Sheikh Zayed had an unlikely collaborator for his green revolution campaign. Mr. Tamaei’s 30 year long untiring work in the UAE resulted in a swath of beautiful mangrove forests along the sandy shores of Umm Al Quwain and Abu Dhabi.

I have just made a brief introduction of the two Japanese pioneers who left legacies in the UAE for their dedication and professionalism. Their DNA is passed down to Japanese companies operating here in Abu Dhabi today.

The Abu Dhabi Oil Company of Japan has been engaged in planting mangrove trees as one of their CSR activities over the past 30 years. Mubarras Island, where they produce oil, now looks much greener and attracts fish and birds. Their afforestation program is highly appreciated by the ADNOC and won their Ecology Award several times. They are committed to implementing their afforestation program for the next 30 years. I wish they could turn the island into an eco-tourism destination, rich in nature and wild life, let alone petroleum.

The Japan Oil Development Company is bridging the UAE and Japan in a very Japanese way. They have been very active in their multiple CSR programs ranging from falcon hunting to tea ceremony. It is widely known that falcon hunting is the proud tradition of the UAE. JODCO brings Japanese falcon handlers to ADIHEX each year to demonstrate their skills and techniques to their Emirati counterparts and guests. Falcon hunting was once popular among prominent Samurais in the feudal Japan. It now serves as a fast lane in bringing us closer. It is amusing that falcon hunting can so effortlessly connect the seemingly distant cultures and peoples of the UAE and Japan.

The Bunduq Company of Japan is promoting an ecology-oriented CSR program of ”Flower Education.” It aims to enhance the awareness of cherishing nature and the environment and encourages us to act accordingly at schools and work-places. This program tells us that even a small thing like caring for flowers will make a difference in the enjoyment of life.

What I have said today is one of Abu Dhabi’s best secrets. I hope it somehow puts us in perspective and illustrates what our national characteristic is like. Japan has been trying to be a decent and dependable partner with the UAE. And we have come this far. Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe visited Abu Dhabi this May. Together with his Abu Dhabi host His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, he opened a new chapter of the bilateral relations of the UAE and Japan. We look forward to further strengthening our vital relations of trust and mutual benefit in business, education, medical services, culture, tourism, people to people exchange and many more.

Last but certainly not least, I make a point of mentioning the cordial ties existing between the Royal and Imperial Families of Abu Dhabi and Japan. His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, the then Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and the current President of the UAE, went to Japan to open the Abu Dhabi Pavilion at the Osaka Expo 1970. He met with the then Japan’s Crown Prince who is the current Emperor of Japan there. 20 years later Sheikh Zayed made a state visit to Japan and was received by His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed is a regular visitor to Japan. Last time he was there in 2007, He was received by His Majesty the Emperor of Japan and met with the Crown Prince of Japan. Likewise, the Crown Prince and Princess of Japan visited Abu Dhabi in 1995 and met with His Highness Sheikh Khalifa, the then Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. It is truly gratifying that the Royal and Imperial Families of the UAE and Japan have deepened their ties of friendship and mutual respect through these visits. May our Royal and Imperial Families continue to prosper! May Dubai’s bid for hosting the Expo 2020, 50 years after Osaka, prevail in Paris tomorrow!

Thank you.

May 5, 2013

His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan,
His Excellency Mohammed Salem Al Dhaheri,
Mr. Tsunoda, President of KUMON
Mr. Nagano, President of Abu Dhabi KUMON
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is indeed my pleasure and privilege to be invited to the KUMON Parents Night and meet with so many students who have been on the KUMON methods and doing very well in attaining their arithmetic skills. I would like to congratulate the parents gathering here on the success of your children.

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for the blessings to the KUMON activities here in Abu Dhabi, offered by His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and other distinguished guests from the local Emirati community, and the support for the KUMON programs given by the Abu Dhabi Education Council.

I am happy to note that we have Mr. Tsunoda, President of KUMON, here with us to celebrate this evening’s event. Under his able leadership, KUMON has been making a big stride to strengthen arithmetic classrooms in Abu Dhabi for the past 15 years, enabling many Abu Dhabi students to take advantage of KUMON’s renowned learning methods in arithmetic in order to develop their potentials to their fullest.

 I hope all the KUMON students here will become Japan’s best friends. You can seek not only academic excellence through your engagement with the KUMON methods but also expand your interest in our culture and people. It is my hope that you will become a bridge for us to get closer and get to know each other better. I commend and thank KUMON for cementing us with their outstanding performance and results.

Thank you and congratulat

Remarks by Ambassador Yoshihiko Kamo for the Japanese Pavilion Reception at the World Future Energy Summit 2013

January 16, 2013

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen:

Thank you for coming to the Japanese Pavilion and being our guests at this reception hosted by the Japan Team headed by Mr. Takahara of the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy. As he said, Japan attaches importance to the issues of energy and water sustainability and is most willing to make contributions to securing our energy and water sustainability with our technologies and solutions.

Taking this opportunity, I would like to offer my sincere appreciation and congratulations to the Abu Dhabi government for successfully launching the Abu Dhabi sustainability Week 2013, featuring the 6th World Future Energy Summit and the 1st International Water Summit, above all things, under the dynamic leadership of His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The Japanese Pavilion is a gem of this year’s WFES/IWS. Here we have 19 booths to display our cutting edge technologies and innovative solutions, and many more. If you want to know what goes on at the forefront of renewable energy and water sectors, this is the place to visit.

It is my hope that you will enjoy your visit to the Japanese Pavilion and gain some insight into what our future energy and water landscape holds. And I am more than happy if our Pavilion will help forge new ties of collaboration and innovation between Japan and Abu Dhabi.

Last but not least, I thank all the people who make this Japanese Pavilion possible and successful. Your engaging participation is most commendable. I wish the Japanese Pavilion all the best.

Thank you.

November27, 2012
Abu Dhabi

H.E. Abdulla Nasser Al Suwaidi, Director General, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company,

H.E. Abdul Munim Saif Al Kindi, Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operation and Deputy Chairman of Petroleum Institute,

Mr. Jasem Ali Al Sayegh, Chief Executive Officer of TAKREER,

Dr. Ali Rashid Al Noaimi, Vice Chancellor, UAE University,

Mr. Morihiro Yoshida, Managing Director, Japan Cooperation Center, Petroleum,

Mr. Shigeki Nakashima, Managing Executive Officer & General Manager, Idemitsu Kosan Company, Limited,

Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and gentlemen,

It is my great honor and privilege to be invited here today together with so many VIPs from Japan and the U.A.E. Today is both significant and memorable as we witness the TAKREER Research Center will be officially opened. As Japan’s new ambassador to Abu Dhabi, I am most delighted to be part of this auspicious occasion and say a few words to thank all the people who worked so hard to bring this much awaited project to fruition. In particular, I want to congratulate the TAKREER and JCCP people on this milestone achievement.

At the second business council meeting between Japan and Abu Dhabi which held last week in Abu Dhabi, I said that I am excited to be able to work in this beautiful and dynamic country, which is growing her international stature in business and diplomacy, under the leadership of His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zhaid Al Nahyan. I would like to emphasize that Japan is most obliged to the U.A.E. for its friendship and partnership with Japan in business collaboration over the past many years. We are proud of the trust you have given and achievement we have made.

The TAKREER Research Center is a perfect example what we can achieve together. The Japan Cooperation Center, Petroleum has been operating successfully in the past 30 years, providing technical assistance and promoting human interchange in the downstream sector of the oil industry throughout the world. TAKREER has been a proven JCCP partner and the two organizations are determined, this time again, to set the standard for what Japan can contribute to facilitating the capacity building and human resource development in the downstream sector of the oil industry.

We have passionate and committed people at the TAKREER and the JCCP. Needless to say, Idemitsu people are all ready to help them and play their role in the process, which, I am sure, will take the project to the conclusion of its final phase 3 in a most successful manner.

Last but not least, I would like to appreciate the leadership of ADNOC, ADCO and UAE University for joining us here today to grace the occasion. Your continued personal attention and guidance are much appreciated and needed in the future as well. I wish the TAKREER Research Center all the best and continued success.

Thank you very much

Nov. 13  2012

Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and gentlemen:

It is my great pleasure to be here today and given a chance to say a few words before this distinguished audience. This is my first official duty as Japan’s new ambassador to the United Arab Emirates. Indeed it is my honor and privilege to serve in this beautiful and dynamic country which is enjoying an outstanding international stature under the able leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zhaid Al Nahyan.

Taking this opportunity, I would like to thank His Excellency Mr. Nasser Ahmed Al Swaidi, President of DED, for his leadership and foresight in organizing this very important business meeting at this critical juncture.

I am happy to note that we have a strong team from Japan led by His Excellency Mr. Hiranao Honda, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry.