On February 13, H.E. Mr. Daisuke Yamamoto, Consul General of Japan in Jeddah, hosted a reception at his residence to celebrate the birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan.
The event was graced by the presence of H.H. Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi, Governor of Jeddah Governorate, along with several distinguished guests, including H.E. Mr. Yasunari Morino, Ambassador of Japan to Saudi Arabia. Also in attendance were H.E. Mr. Farid bin Saad Al-Shehri, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Makkah Region), government officials, consuls general, honorary consuls, business leaders, and other prominent figures.
Key Highlights
The evening began with the national anthems of Japan and Saudi Arabia, followed by a ceremonial cake-cutting led by His Highness, the Ambassador, the Consul General, and other consuls general.
In his speech, Consul General Yamamoto expressed gratitude to His Highness and the attendees, congratulating Saudi Arabia on its Founding Day, which coincides closely with His Majesty’s birthday. He also acknowledged the 10th anniversary of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud’s accession to the throne.
Highlighting the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Saudi Arabia, Mr. Yamamoto emphasized the enduring friendship and deepening cooperation between the two nations.
He outlined the Consulate’s cultural initiatives, such as the Hayy Matsuri Festival and the upcoming Manga Hokusai Manga exhibition in historic Jeddah. He also invited guests to Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, and encouraged greater Saudi investments in Japan while supporting Japanese business expansion in the Kingdom, particularly in preparation for Riyadh Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
The evening concluded with a showcase of Japanese cuisine, including sushi, tempura, and yakitori, offering guests an authentic culinary experience and strengthening cultural appreciation between the two nations.
