Emperor’s Birthday Reception 2025

On 27 February, Ambassador and Mrs. Kimura hosted the National Day Reception on the occasion of His Majesty the Emperor's Birthday. Our Embassy had the honor of receiving H.E. Dr. José Ramos Horta, President of the Republic of Timor-Leste, members of the IX Constitutional Government, member of National Parliament, Government officials, heads and members of the diplomatic corps, UN agencies international organization and civil society.

The evening opened with the national anthems of the two countries, performed by the chorus group from Instituto São João de Brito. This was followed by Ambassador Kimura’s speech expressing his sincere gratitude to President José Ramos-Horta and the people of Timor-Leste for their friendship and cooperation toward Japan. Furthermore, Ambassador Kimura explained the progress in three goals, which he set himself at the beginning of his tenure; to strengthen cooperation in agriculture and fishery; to invite more Japanese companies to invest in Timor-Leste in such fields as energy, environment and manufacturing; and to promote people to people ties that is the foundation of friendship between the two countries. (Ambassador's speech text available in here)

President Ramos-Horta then delivered his remarks to congratulate His Majesty the Emperor on his birthday and expressed his appreciation to Japan’s commitment to the development of Timor-Leste and well-being of its people. Following the speech, a Japanese traditional ceremony called Kagami-Biraki took place, which symbolizes an opening of harmony and good fortune.

Together with Japanese food, guests enjoyed sake, Japanese rice wine and Japanese tea, all of which representing the rich Japanese culture.

The Embassy of Japan would like to extend sincere gratitude to all our guests for their kind presence.