Japan Envoy Speaks Hindi at Emperor's Birthday Bash

The Embassy of Japan in Delhi recently hosted a reception to honor the Emperor of Japan's 66th birthday. Japanese Ambassador ONO Keiichi opened his remarks in Hindi, receiving warm applause and highlighting the strong cultural ties between India and Japan. During the event, he also participated in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony.

Ambassador ONO emphasized that the robust relationship between India and Japan is built on economic ties and people-to-people exchanges, not solely high-level interactions. He noted his appreciation for India, having traveled to 16 states and conversed in regional languages like Gujarati and Telugu. The upcoming year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Kiren Rijiju, the chief guest and Union Minister, commended the Ambassador's proficiency in Hindi and reiterated the historical and civilizational foundations of India-Japan relations, including their shared Buddhist heritage. He also pointed to their common strategic outlook and commitment to peace in the Indo-Pacific region.

The reception featured a unique Indo-Japanese menu, offering guests a blend of traditional Japanese snacks and Indian sweets, alongside appetizers like tempura shrimp and tofu salad.