RKI Network

The Embassy of Japan in Qatar, in collaboration with Qatar University and the Japanese Language Teachers Association in Qatar (JALTAQ), successfully organized the 16th Japanese Speech Contest on February 15.

The speech contest, held at the Qatar University’s Research Complex, showcased the linguistic abilities of 26 Japanese language learners competing across three categories.

In his opening remarks, H.E. Mr. Naoto Hisajima, Ambassador of Japan to the State of Qatar, expressed his sincere appreciation to Qatar University, the sponsors, judges, participants, and JALTAQ for their unwavering support in promoting Japanese language education in Qatar. Ambassador Hisajima further emphasized the contest’s significant contribution to strengthening the amicable relations between Japan and Qatar.

Ms. Amna Owais, a Pakistani resident of Qatar, won first place in the advanced category. Her speech detailing her dream of becoming a Virtual YouTuber resonated deeply with both the judges and the audience. Ms. Amna was awarded a round-trip ticket to Japan courtesy of Japan Airlines JAL.

As part of the event, Qatar Japan Friendship Association presented interesting overview of the Chubu region in Japan, the destination of the first LNG shipment from Qatar to Japan in 1997.

The following Japanese and local companies sponsored the contest, reflecting its importance for both Japanese and Qatari business communities: Chiyoda Almana Engineering, Chubu Electric Power Company, Darwish Holding (FNAC Qatar), Itochu Corporation, Iwatani Corporation, Japan Airlines, Japan Qatar Friendship Association, LNG Japan, Marubeni Corporation, Mitsubishi Corporation, MUFG Bank, Musashi International Company, North Café, Ninja Ramen restaurant and Sumitomo Corporation.