21st February, 2020 Japanese Ambassador to Tonga, H.E Mr Tetsuya Ishii hosted a reception last night at his residence in ‘Anana to celebrate the 60th birthday of Emperor Naruhito. Gracing the occasion were His Majesty King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau’u.
H.E Mr Tetsuya led the toast to celebrate the Emperor’s birthday and express well wishes for His Majesty’s continued good health. In his address, the Japanese Ambassador said this is the first reception for the Emperor’s birthday in a new Era, “Reiwa” meaning a beautiful harmony and its significance can be symbolized by the following Three “O”s as celebrated historic occasions.
![H.E Mr Tetsuya]()
- H.E Mr Tetsuya
“The first is 60 or six “O”. His Majesty Emperor Naruhito will be turning 60 years old on February 23, and it is a joyous occasion for the people of Japan. In October last year, Their Majesties King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau’u kindly attended the enthronement ceremony of Their Majesties Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.”
“The second is 50 or five “O”. The year 2020 marks the 50th year anniversary of the establishment of Japan and Tonga’s diplomatic relationship. I wish to celebrate this significant milestone with both our people, and we will also have a shared logo for celebrating the year.”
“The third is the “O” lympic. This will be the second time for Tokyo to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games, since 1964. I believe that sports is not only a symbol of competition but also of union, peace and health.”
He stated the friendship between two countries and the people continue to become stronger and closer and its foundations are multi-layered.
“I have identified these following three elements as significant factors in performing key roles in our cordial friendship. I greatly aspire and stay committed to further strengthening our relations into the future, especially as we are now in the Golden Jubilee of our diplomatic ties. This year we celebrate our 50 years of close cooperation and warm friendship and look forward to opening another new half-century of our golden bond.”
Prime Minister of Tonga, Hon. Dr Pohiva Tu’i’onetoa on behalf of the Government and people of Tonga said, “Tonga and Japan’s relations date back to 1970. Japan had restored economic confidence and its standing in the international arena; whilst Tonga had shed its protectorate status and re-joined the comity of nations. Japan established diplomatic relations with Tonga in July 1970 and it has since evolved into a cordial and deeply rooted partnership.”
Hon. Tu’i’onetoa expressed his sincere gratitude to the Government and people of Japan for the ongoing assistance and support.
The Prime Minister of Tonga also proposed a toast to extend best wishes to His Imperial Majesty Naruhito on his 60th birthday, and welfare of the Government and people of Japan.
Attended last night’s occasion were Members of Parliament, Nobles of the Realm, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, government officials, church leaders and guests.
ENDS
Issued by the: Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change & Communications.