By Haroon Rashid Qureshi
rki.news

Ambassador Naoto Hisajima Highlights Expanding Cooperation in Energy, Investment, Defense and Culture

Doha, February 9, 2026 – H.E. Ambassador of Japan to Qatar, Naoto Hisajima, hosted a distinguished reception on the occasion of the 66th birthday of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito. The event brought together Qatari officials, diplomats, business leaders, and community representatives to celebrate the enduring friendship, strategic partnership, and multifaceted collaboration between Japan and Qatar.
The reception was attended by His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani, Minister of Transport; Mr. Mohamed Al-Jaida, Assistant Director of the Protocol Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and other esteemed colleagues, dignitaries, and guests.
In his address, Ambassador Hisajima highlighted key milestones in Japan-Qatar relations over the past year. Notably, the third Japan-Qatar Strategic Dialogue took place in Doha on January 13, between Japan’s Foreign Minister Mr. Toshimitsu Motegi and Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. The dialogue addressed bilateral, regional, and global issues, underscoring Qatar’s pivotal role in regional diplomacy, humanitarian engagement, and economic development, including its mediation efforts in Gaza alongside the U.S. and Egypt.
Another significant development was the signing of a long-term LNG purchase agreement between Japan’s JERA and Qatar Energy on February 3, marking the 30th anniversary of Japan’s LNG imports from Qatar since 1997. The agreement strengthens energy ties, economic cooperation, and sustainable energy security between the two nations, following successful discussions during H.E. Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi’s visit to Japan last November.
Ambassador Hisajima also emphasized the success of the Osaka-Kansai Expo, which attracted over 25 million visitors. Qatar’s pavilion, visited by dignitaries including H.E. Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani, and H.E. Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani, reinforced shared visions for sustainable innovation, cultural exchange, and technological advancement. The Expo highlighted both countries’ commitment to global progress, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development.
Looking ahead, the Ambassador noted the upcoming Aichi Nagoya Asian Games 2026 and the International Horticultural Expo in Yokohama 2027, followed by Doha hosting events in 2030 and 2023 respectively, signaling continued cooperation, sports diplomacy, and cultural exchange. Ambassador Hisajima also recalled Qatar’s contribution as a host of international sporting tournaments, further enhancing bilateral ties, youth engagement, and people-to-people relations.
In defense and investment, Ambassador Hisajima highlighted the 2nd Japan-Qatar Military-to-Military Dialogue in Tokyo, the official visit of Japan’s Chief of Joint Staff General Uchikura to Qatar, and new Qatari investments in Japan totaling over USD 6.5 billion in 2023-24. He encouraged further private sector engagement via programs such as the “Program for Promotion of Foreign Direct Investment in Japan 2025” and JETRO initiatives, noting the vast potential for collaboration in technology, infrastructure, innovation, and sustainable development sectors.
Ambassador Hisajima also underscored people-to-people connections, noting Japan’s growing interest in Qatar and the lasting support shown during the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. He expressed pride in Qatar’s cultural hospitality and ongoing collaborations, including public events, exhibitions, and performances, such as the Qatar Philharmonic in traditional Japanese kimonos. The Embassy also showcased Japanese products, art, culinary excellence, and creative innovations, emphasizing shared cultural values and strengthening bilateral ties.
Concluding his speech, Ambassador Hisajima extended his best wishes for the continued health and happiness of His Majesty the Emperor, His Highness the Emir, and all attendees, reaffirming the bright future of Japan-Qatar relations in diplomacy, culture, trade, sports, innovation, education, and technological collaboration.