KATHMANDU, Feb 24: Japanese Ambassador to Nepal, Kikuta Yutaka, hosted a National Day Reception at his official Residence in Tahachal on Friday to celebrate the 64th auspicious birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan.

Approximately 360 guests including Vice President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav as the chief guest,  Minister for Urban Development Sita Gurung, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Indira Rana Magar, former ministers, ambassadors, heads of international organizations in Nepal, members of the Federal Parliament, government officials, and friends of Japan attended the event.

Ambassador Kikuta extended a warm welcome to all the guests, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the sympathy shown by “friends in Nepal” and the support offered by Nepali residents in Japan following the Noto Peninsula Earthquake on January 1, 2024. He acknowledged His Majesty the Emperor's appreciation in response to the messages of condolences expressed by President Ram Chandra Paudel.

Recognizing natural disasters as a common challenge for both Japan and Nepal, he emphasized the crucial need for cooperation between the two countries to address these challenges.

Looking ahead to the year 2026, which marks Nepal’s graduation from the LDC and the 70th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Nepal, Ambassador Kikuta expressed hope for further enhancement of bilateral cordial relations leading up to and beyond this significant year.

As part of the cultural demonstration, Ambassador Kikuta and Okubo Akimitsu, the chief representative for JICA Nepal Office, performed Kendo Kata (demonstration), a traditional Japanese martial art using swords. 

 
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