The Embassy of Japan in Ashgabat held a gala reception on Friday dedicated to a significant event – the Birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. This event is not just a social event, but an important milestone in the calendar of the Land of the Rising Sun, symbolizing the unity of the nation and respect for the centuries-old history of the imperial dynasty.

The birthday of Emperor Naruhito, celebrated on February 23, is one of the main national holidays in Japan. On this day, the Japanese pay tribute to the head of state, expressing respect for the institution of imperial power, which is an integral part of the cultural code of Japan. Traditionally, thousands of people gather at the walls of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo to personally congratulate the Emperor and members of his family.

The atmosphere of the reception in Ashgabat was permeated with Japanese elegance and hospitality. At the entrance, guests were greeted by flower arrangements, an exhibition of landscapes and posters about Japan, elegant photo stands that allowed them to “try on” traditional Japanese clothing. The hall was filled with representatives of the diplomatic corps in Turkmenistan, guests from the cultural, business, press and other spheres. Welcoming smiles, an exchange of congratulations – everything was filled with goodwill and respect for the traditions of Japan, which is capable of surprising, it seems, endlessly.

As Ambassador Sasaki Hiroshi noted in his welcoming speech at the reception, it is customary for Japanese embassies around the world, as is the tradition in Great Britain, to hold a National Reception on the birthday of the current Emperor of Japan.

The Ambassador emphasized the high level of friendly and partner relations between Japan and Turkmenistan, noting the positive dynamics in various areas of cooperation. Sasaki Hiroshi paid special attention to the upcoming World Exhibition in Osaka, Kansai, which will open in April this year, and the planned visit of the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov to Japan in connection with this event.

The Ambassador, speaking in the Turkmen language, expressed hope that this visit will be fruitful for both countries and assured that he will do everything possible for this.

Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov conveyed congratulations from President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Chairman of the Khalk Maslakhaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov on the occasion of the National Day of Japan, wishing the Japanese people peace and harmony, and Emperor Naruhito on his birthday - good health, long life, successful activities for the benefit of the Land of the Rising Sun.

This year we celebrate the 33rd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries. During this period, significant progress has been achieved in expanding mutual ties based on the principles of mutual trust, respect and understanding, the minister said. He emphasized that the main factor in these friendly relations is regular political dialogue at the highest and high levels.

The effective interaction of the two countries in the economy was noted, as exemplified by the implemented projects for the construction of large complexes and enterprises in the chemical industry, electric power industry and other areas. Key partners in these projects are Kawasaki, Mitsubishi, Sumitomo, Sojitz, Toyo and other Japanese companies. According to Meredov, the total amount of joint projects is about 8 billion US dollars.

Today, Japanese is taught in 6 universities and 12 schools in Turkmenistan, and is studied by more than 15,000 Turkmen citizens, including about 3,500 students and 11,500 schoolchildren.

To introduce the guests to Japanese culture, special guests from Japan were invited to the reception: Ueda Chiho demonstrated the filigree technique of performing a Japanese fan dance, and Kikuchi Yutaka demonstrated a mesmerizing performance on the shamisen musical instrument. Turkmen students also performed in the musical performance.

After the official part, the guests were able to enjoy traditional Japanese treats and drinks. Delicacies of Japanese cuisine, simple and sophisticated at the same time, from sushi to tempura and sweets, presented a fascinating gastronomic excursion.

The reception at the Japanese Embassy in Ashgabat was not only a solemn celebration of the Emperor's birthday, but also an important platform for strengthening friendly ties between Japan and Turkmenistan. The atmosphere of respect, hospitality and mutual interest emphasized the importance of intercultural dialogue and further development of partnership relations between the two countries.

ORIENT