Amman: The Japanese Embassy in Amman hosted a reception Wednesday evening to mark Japan's National Day and commemorate the 66th birthday of the Emperor, observed annually on February 23.
According to Jordan News Agency, the embassy issued a statement on Thursday highlighting the event as a reaffirmation of the longstanding Japan-Jordan relations spanning more than seven decades. The statement emphasized cooperation across various sectors, including political, economic, cultural, security, and education fields, along with strong people-to-people and academic exchanges.
The embassy noted that 2025 would be a significant year in the bilateral relationship, citing His Majesty King Abdullah II's visit to Japan in November and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II's visit in May for the Osaka-Kansai Expo.
Japanese Ambassador to Jordan Asari Hideki emphasized the depth of Japanese-Jordanian relations, stating that both countries maintain enduring values alongside modern innovation. He highlighted sustained engagement in areas such as security and defense, economy and business, culture, education, and people-to-people and academic exchanges.
The ambassador mentioned Japan's continued support for Jordan through humanitarian and development assistance exceeding $4.4 billion. He also noted bilateral defense cooperation, which has included high-level visits from Japan's defense minister and the chief of staff of the Joint Staff of the Japan Self-Defense Forces.
Furthermore, he underscored Japan's role in supporting peace efforts in Palestine through its "Three Pillar Approach to Sustain Peace," which aims to maintain stability and leverage the recent Assistance Package for Palestine valued at $170 million.
The ambassador affirmed that the relations between Japan and Jordan are anchored in mutual respect and shared values, reiterating Japan's commitment to supporting Jordan's efforts to advance stability and development in the region and expanding cooperation in the coming years.
The reception also featured displays of Japanese vehicles from Mazda, Isuzu, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Suzuki, and Honda, along with exhibits by JTI, Seiko, Hitachi Energy, and Kikkoman, showcasing strong Japan-Jordan commercial ties.
Cultural programming included ikebana, a performance on the koto stringed instrument, and a traditional tea ceremony conducted by the ambassador, as well as sushi prepared by Japanese chef Nakamura.