The 76th Republic Day of India was commemorated with grandeur and warmth through a special reception hosted by Ambassador Sibi George. The event, held in Japan, was a remarkable occasion to honor India’s democratic journey while fostering the deep and enduring partnership between India and Japan.
Distinguished Guests in Attendance
The reception saw an illustrious gathering of dignitaries from Japan’s political, diplomatic, and administrative spheres. Keynote addresses were delivered by prominent leaders, highlighting the shared values and growing ties between the two nations:
1. H.E. Mr. Yoshimasa Hayashi – Chief Cabinet Secretary of Japan,
2. H.E. Mr. Takeshi Iwaya – Foreign Minister of Japan,
3. H.E. Mr. Yoshihide Suga – Chairman of the Japan-India Association and former Prime Minister of Japan,
4. H.E. Mr. Minoru Kiuchi – Minister in Charge of Economic Security,
5. H.E. Mr. Kotaro Nagasaki – Governor of Yamanashi,
Additional Dignitaries Present
The event was graced by several other high-ranking officials, including:
• H.E. Ms. Toshiko Abe, Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology
• H.E. Mr. Masahiro Komura, State Minister of Justice
• H.E. Mr. Masashi Adachi, State Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications
• H.E. Mr. Hirofumi Takinami, State Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries
• H.E. Mr. Masataka Okano, National Security Advisor
• Mr. Kazuhiro Kobayashi, Parliamentary Vice Minister of Defense
• H.E. Ms. Rio Tomonou, Parliamentary Vice Minister of Cabinet Office
Prominent leaders from the Japan Self-Defense Forces and Coast Guard, including General Yoshihide Yoshida, Chief of Staff of the Joint Staff, and Admiral Yoshio Seguchi, Commandant of the Japan Coast Guard, were also present. Governors of various prefectures, including H.E. Mr. Tokihiro Nakamura (Ehime) and H.E. Mr. Yasutomo Suzuki (Shizuoka), added further prestige to the event.
Key Themes and Highlights
The evening showcased the essence of the India-Japan partnership, emphasizing shared democratic values, cultural ties, and mutual aspirations for regional and global peace.
A Memorable Evening
The reception served as a testament to the enduring friendship between India and Japan. It was not just a celebration of India’s Republic Day but also a reaffirmation of shared goals and a future of collaboration, innovation, and mutual respect.
This gathering underlined the importance of diplomacy in fostering meaningful relationships and highlighted the dynamic potential of the India-Japan partnership in shaping a better world.
