Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — Japanese Ambassador Jiro Kodera on Sunday hosted a reception celebrating Japanese Self-Defense Force (JSDF) Day at his residence. Saudi officials and diplomats in Riyadh attended the celebration. Guests showed appreciation for an exhibition of photos showing the activities of JSDF and its cooperation with Saudi forces. Kodera said: “During Prime Minister (Shinzo) Abe's visit to Saudi Arabia which took place on April 30 and May 1 this year, Japan and Saudi Arabia both expressed their intention to promote security dialogue in the aspects of issues such as maritime security, counter-piracy, counter-terrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. “This shows that both countries are well aware of the importance of security and the Self-Defense Force.” Talking about the last six months since his arrival in the Kingdom, he said: “It is my first mission to the Middle East, but I now feel familiarized with Saudi Arabia thanks to all the hospitality and kindness shown by Saudi people. “I also recognized many cultural similarities between the two countries. “Those similarities indeed help maintain friendly and strong bilateral relations between Japan and Saudi Arabia and I hope to contribute to the further development of our relations during my mission here in Saudi Arabia.” During the reception, some Japanese dishes including sushi and tempura were served in addition to Naval Curry, a Japanese curry and rice dish that is a traditional favorite of the Maritime Self-Defense Force of Japan. In addition, an Ikebana (Japanese flower arrangement) demonstration was held by Tenkei Nomura, a Japanese artist. Nomura entertained the guests with his beautiful flowers arrangement work composed of plants from local markets. Also, the Japanese Embassy displayed miniatures of transport aircraft, high-tech RO membranes, CIS modules and brand-new luxurious automobiles with the cooperation of Saudi and Japanese companies.
