Ambassador's Message

On November 9th, I assumed the post of Ambassador of Japan to the Kingdom of Bhutan.  Previously, I have served in the United States, Italy, Iran, Afghanistan, Republic of Korea, and the United Kingdom.  With your kind support, I look forward to strengthening Japan-Bhutan relations.
　
Since the establishment of diplomatic relationship, Japan and Bhutan have enjoyed active exchanges between the Imperial and Royal Families. In particular, the visit to Bhutan by Their Imperial Highnesses the Crown Prince and Crown Princess and His Imperial Highness Prince Hisahito of Akishino in August 2019 is fresh in our memories. From the Bhutanese Royal family, Their Majesties King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema, visited Japan in November 2011 and October 2019, and Her Royal Highness Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuck visited Japan in September this year, all generating much popularity among the Japanese people and triggered a Bhutan boom.
 
I am pleased to note that the Japan-Bhutan relations began with Dasho Keiji Nishioka's efforts to promote agriculture, and later on, the relations have further developed through economic cooperation such as infrastructure development, and today, the two countries enjoy a broad relationship that includes cooperation in the international arena as well as cultural exchanges.
 
This year marks the 35th anniversary of the conclusion of the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) Agreement between Japan and Bhutan. In the last couple of years, Covid-19 pandemic has made it difficult to travel between both countries, but in light of recent developments to resume cross-border traveling, I will endeavor to further develop friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation between Japan and Bhutan.  I would be grateful if you could extend to me your kind support and cooperation.