Japan Strengthens Ties with Qatar: Ambassador Hisajima Marks Emperor Naruhito’s 65th Birthday

RKI Network

Doha, Qatar – The Embassy of Japan in Qatar hosted a reception to mark the 65th birthday of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito of Japan. The event, held at the Ritz-Carlton Qatar on Sunday, was attended by esteemed dignitaries, including H.E. Sheikh Faisal Bin Thani Al Thani, Minister of Commerce and Industry, and H.E. Ambassador Ibrahim Fakhroo, Director of the Protocol Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with distinguished guests from the diplomatic, business, and cultural communities.

H.E. Ambassador Naoto Hisajima delivered a speech reflecting on the deepening ties between Japan and Qatar. “It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all this evening to Japan’s National Day Reception. I am honored to serve as Japan’s Ambassador in this beautiful country and to witness firsthand the strength of our bilateral relations,” he said.

The Ambassador commended Qatar’s mediation efforts in the ceasefire agreement in Gaza and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to humanitarian and reconstruction efforts. “Japan continues to engage with international partners to improve humanitarian conditions and work towards a two-state solution for long-term peace,” he stated.

On economic relations, he noted Japan and Qatar’s expanding trade and investment ties, highlighting discussions on startups and high-tech collaborations. “Japan is home to cutting-edge technologies, and we are eager to deepen cooperation in semiconductors and healthcare,” he remarked. He also referenced the 14th Meeting of the Improvement of Business Environment and Investment Working Group as a key step forward.

In defense cooperation, he pointed to recent engagements, including the visit of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer Murasame and the first Japan-Qatar Military-to-Military Dialogue, as indicators of growing security collaboration.

Energy and environmental sustainability were also key topics. Ambassador Hisajima emphasized Japan’s Green Transformation initiatives and Qatar’s commitment to sustainable development. “A Japanese-led consortium was awarded a contract to build and operate a power and water plant in Ras Abu Fontas, using high-efficiency gas turbines that will contribute to Qatar’s energy stability and decarbonization efforts,” he said.

He also highlighted increased air links between the two countries, citing the launch of direct flights by Japan Airlines between Tokyo and Doha and Qatar Airways’ resumption of flights to Osaka. These developments, he noted, will boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges.

Looking ahead, the Ambassador expressed excitement for Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, which will bring together 158 countries. “For visitors from around the world, and especially children who will shape our future, this will be an unparalleled experience to witness cutting-edge technologies and innovations,” he said.

He closed by thanking attendees and reaffirming Japan and Qatar’s strong ties. “As we gather tonight, I hope you feel as though you are taking a short journey to Japan. May our partnership continue to bring prosperity, peace, and understanding to our peoples and the world.”

The evening concluded with a celebration of Japanese culture and hospitality, reinforcing the growing bond between Japan and Qatar.