THE Embassy of Japan recently announced that its country’s new Ambassador-designate to the Philippines, Kazuhiko Koshikawa, set foot in Manila on November 26.
Upon his arrival, the diplomat expressed his firm commitment to build on the foundations of the long-standing partnership between Japan and the Philippines in a brief statement:
“Mabuhay!
It is my great honor and privilege to be appointed ambassador of Japan to the Philippines. The relationship between our two countries is a shining example of cooperation and mutual understanding that our forebears have nurtured. I am delighted to have this opportunity to scale new heights of the bilateral relations and forge even closer friendship. The formidable ties that bind Japan and the Philippines together have undoubtedly ushered us into the ‘Golden Age’ of the Strategic Partnership. This incredible feat in our relations is one encompassing a dynamic narrative of growth and trust.
Through the years, Japan’s commitment to bring development closer to the grassroots, [as well as] support the peace process and human security, has brought forth remarkable results in the Philippines, which have bolstered our bilateral ties. Beyond the economic and political realms, our people-to-people [bonds have] also persistently showcased the historical human and cultural connections that further fortify our partnership.
As my diplomatic mission here in the Philippines begins, I shall exert every possible effort to further galvanize the foundations that make our bilateral ties special. I look forward to working with the people of the Philippines in realizing my commitments.”
Koshikawa was previously the executive senior vice president of the Japan International Cooperation Agency or JICA. He also served as the ambassador of Japan to Angola between 2008 and 2011, as well as Spain from 2014 to 2016, respectively.