A year-long programme celebrating 40 years of diplomatic relations from 1972 to 2012 – Qatar Japan 2012 – has been launched at an event organised in Tokyo on Wednesday by the Qatar embassy in Japan.
Qatari and Japanese officials at the launch event in Tokyo
The proposed series of cultural, sporting and business events are intended to promote mutual awareness and appreciation of history, achievements and heritage.
Various activities planned in both countries include exhibitions, educational exchange programmes, fashion shows, friendly football matches, and business forums.
The first event for Qatar Japan 2012 will be “Murakami – Ego” an exhibition by renowned Japanese artist Takashi Murakami, in Doha from February 9 to June 24.
The organisers of Qatar Japan 2012 initiative are the Qatar Museums Authority (QMA), the Ministry of Culture in Qatar, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Qatar, the embassy of Japan in Qatar, and the embassy of Qatar in Japan.
In addition, the initiative is supported by several contributing partners who play key roles in business and culture.
Qatar and Japan have been major trade and business partners, and in recent years their partnership has expanded into new areas such as education, culture and technology, a statement issued by the QMA said.
Key to the relationship, the statement said, is mutual respect and support, as was evident following this year’s tragic tsunami in Japan when Qatar contributed and supported reconstruction efforts.
“The Qatar Museums Authority is committed to promoting cultural dialogue and programmes that build bridges between nations,” chairperson HE Sheikha Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani said.
Pointing out that Japan and Qatar have enjoyed excellent relations since 1972, she stated that next year is a great opportunity to further develop ties between the two nations.
Through a series of art, culture and sport events, the Qatar Japan 2012 initiative aims to enhance mutual appreciation for each other.
“We look forward to a fruitful year of co-operation with all partners to celebrate our friendship and respective cultures,” she added.
Japan’s Ambassador to Qatar Kenjiro Monji said the relationship between the two nations is rich and diverse and encompasses business, culture and education.
“This wealth of diversity will be reflected and shared by both nations in a host of cultural events throughout 2012,” he observed.
Qatar’s Ambassador to Japan Yousef M Bilal stressed that Qatar Japan 2012 will highlight a friendship that goes beyond boundaries.
“We will share the cultures of our nations, leading to greater understanding which will in turn forge enduring ties for the future,” he added.
