Visit to Japan of Dr. Jacob Kellenberger, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)

February 21, 2008

  1. Dr. Jacob Kellenberger, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), will visit Japan for four days from February 26 (Tue) to 29 (Fri) upon the invitation by Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Mr. Masahiko Koumura.
  2. During his stay in Japan, Dr. Kellenberger will be received in audience by Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress, will pay a courtesy call to Prime Minister of Japan, Mr. Yasuo Fukuda, and will have a meeting with Minister Koumura and other key officials of the Government of Japan.  Dr. Kellenberger will also give a speech and attend panel discussion at a symposium organized by Tokyo Foundation regarding humanitarian assistance and peace building under conflict.
  3. Japan has been providing humanitarian relief to victims of conflicts around the world in active cooperation with the ICRC. It is expected that his visit would further enhance the cooperative relationship between Japan and the ICRC.
  4. Mr. Kellenberger last visited Japan in December 2001. This will be the second visit for him as President of the ICRC.
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