Emperor's Birthday Reception 2024

On 23 February, Ambassador and Mrs. Kimura hosted a reception at the official residence of the Ambassador on the occasion of His Majesty the Emperor's Birthday. They had the honor of receiving H.E. Dr. José Ramos Horta, President of the Republic of Timor-Leste as well as Former President/Former Prime Minister H. E. Mr. Taur Matan Ruak, Ministers, Vice-Minister, Secretaries of State, Member of National Parliament, Government officials, heads and members of the diplomatic corps, UN agencies international organization and civil society. There were in total approximately 200 guests.

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 an address from Ambassador Kimura, who expressed his congratulations to His Majesty the Emperor on the occasion of his 64th birthday and also expressed his sincere gratitude to President José Ramos-Horta and the people of Timor-Leste for their sympathy and solidarity extended to the victims of the earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula on the first day of 2024. Furthermore, Ambassador Kimura explained the progress in three goals 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.

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, some guests were invited to the stage to join Kagami-Biraki, a Japanese traditional ceremony, performed at celebratory events that symbolizes opening of harmony and good fortune.

Guests enjoyed sake or Japanese rice wine and Japanese tea, as well as displays that depict Japanese culture and development cooperation between Japan and Timor-Leste.