Extending My Gratitude Upon The Completion of My Tenure

I spent two years and 11 months as Ambassador of Japan to the Kingdom of Bhutan.
 
Soon after I commenced my diplomatic assignment as Ambassador, Covid-19 spread across the world and the diplomatic activities have been quite different than usual. However, many economic cooperation projects, mainly in the field of healthcare, were implemented between Japan and Bhutan, such as a medical equipment provision under The Economic and Social Development Programme and the provision of a yen loan for emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to the existing projects that Japan has been undertaking in Bhutan.
 
After two and a half years, travel restrictions between the two countries were gradually lifted. I also had an opportunity to visit Bhutan again after almost three years. I observed that economic cooperation projects are carried forward despite the Covid-19 situation. I was also delighted to visit the Judo Dojo(Hall) in Thimphu which was established as part of first-ever project undertaken under the Japan's grant assistance for cultural grassroots project in Bhutan.
 
This year marks Japan-Southwest Asia Exchange Year. In October, “JAPAN WEEK in Bhutan” will be held in Thimphu after three years. I am convinced that the relationship between Japan and Bhutan will be further deepened.
 
My next destination is Italy. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to everyone for all the kindness and support you have extended to me during my tenure. I wish all of you good health and the best of luck in your future endeavors.