Reception to Celebrate His Majesty the Emperor’s Birthday (12 February 2026)
2026/2/17
(Japanese)
On February 12, Ambassador Maruyama hosted a reception to celebrate His Majesty the Emperor’s Birthday, which was attended by Senator the Honourable Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, representatives from the Government of Jamaica, diplomatic and consular corps, and economic and cultural sectors, among others.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Maruyama expressed his hope for the advancement of Japan-Jamaica relations and stated it was an honor to celebrate His Majesty the Emperor's birthday together. He expressed the desire to firmly advance dialogue and cooperation with Jamaica to address common challenges such as recovery from disasters, crisis management, and economic growth, thereby contributing to the interests of both nations and the stability and prosperity of the region.
On behalf of the Government and people of Jamaica, Minister Johnson Smith conveyed warm wishes to His Majesty the Emperor. Noting JET Programme and JICA, among others, Minister Johnson Smith also expressed appreciation for the enduring partnership between Jamaica and Japan, reflecting on ongoing cooperation across a wide range of fields, including education, trade and capacity building, and disaster prevention, among others.
At the Reception, Japanese cuisine and sake were served, and guests were able to learn about Tottori Prefecture, which is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its sister city relationship with Westmoreland this year.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Maruyama expressed his hope for the advancement of Japan-Jamaica relations and stated it was an honor to celebrate His Majesty the Emperor's birthday together. He expressed the desire to firmly advance dialogue and cooperation with Jamaica to address common challenges such as recovery from disasters, crisis management, and economic growth, thereby contributing to the interests of both nations and the stability and prosperity of the region.
On behalf of the Government and people of Jamaica, Minister Johnson Smith conveyed warm wishes to His Majesty the Emperor. Noting JET Programme and JICA, among others, Minister Johnson Smith also expressed appreciation for the enduring partnership between Jamaica and Japan, reflecting on ongoing cooperation across a wide range of fields, including education, trade and capacity building, and disaster prevention, among others.
At the Reception, Japanese cuisine and sake were served, and guests were able to learn about Tottori Prefecture, which is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its sister city relationship with Westmoreland this year.
