Ambassador Sato hosted His Majesty the Emperor's
Birthday Reception
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On December 4, 2012, Ambassador and Mrs. Sato hosted at their residence the annual reception celebrating the birthday of His Majesty the Emperor Akihito of Japan.
Honored with the presence of H.E. President Shimon Peres, this year's reception also highlighted the celebration of the 60th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and Israel.
Among over 400 guests were also H.E. Mr. Ehud Barak, Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Defense,
H.E. Mr. Ehud Olmert, Former Prime Minister, H.E. Prof. Stanley Fischer, Governor of Bank of Israel,
The Hon. M.K. Mr. Shai Hermesh, The Hon. M.K. Mr. Yoel Hasson, representatives of the Diplomatic Corps as well as distinguished guests from the Israeli and Japanese communities.
Ambassador Sato, in his speech, along with congratulatory remarks addressed to His Majesty's birthday, celebrated anew the 60 years of the long-lasting friendship between the two countries, hoping for greater achievement especially in the business and economic sphere for the next 60 years to come.
Ambassador also expressed Japan's renewed gratitude to the Government and the people of Israel for their support and solidarity demonstrated after the Great East Japan Earthquake, noting that many Israeli aid workers are still helping the people in the afflicted areas.
The guest of honor, President Peres sent his homage to His Majesty Emperor Akihito, and wished him continued good health and longevity. He also echoed Ambassador Sato's preceding remarks in congratulating the 60th anniversary of the bilateral relations.
President praised the people of Japan, noting that they are the gifts of the country who enriched the refusing land and led the nation to become one of the greatest economies of the world.
He then expressed his wish for a successful rebirth of the country after last year's earthquake, and his great admiration for the people who have worked on the reconstruction with great hope, dignity and character.
The President also recognized Japan's significant contribution to peace in the Middle East, specifically referring to the initiative of the Corridor for Peace and Prosperity in the Jordan River Valley. |
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