Speeches by the Prime Minister TAKAICHI Sanae

On October 7, Prime Minister TAKAICHI Sanae sent the following congratulatory remarks at the opening ceremony of the 66th Convention of Nikkei and Japanese Abroad. The remarks were delivered on her behalf by Mr. NAKANISHI Yusuke, Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary.

It is my great pleasure, on behalf of the Government and people of Japan, to extend my heartfelt congratulations on the grand opening of the 66th Convention of Nikkei and Japanese Abroad, with so many participants joining us from around the world. I understand that approximately 200 people from around 20 countries are gathered here today. I extend my warmest welcome to all the Nikkei who have traveled such long distances to Japan to attend this convention. I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to all those involved, including the Association of Nikkei and Japanese Abroad, who have devoted their time and efforts to making this convention possible.

The overseas migration of Japanese people began in the Meiji era, with many people migrating from Japan in groups, particularly to North, Central, and South America. In recent years, an increasing number of Japanese people have also moved to various parts of the world individually or with their families.

The journey that each and every one of you, as Nikkei, have built over the years in your respective countries of residence is an irreplaceable asset, forged through your tireless efforts and indomitable spirit as you left your homeland and overcame countless hardships in different cultures and environments. This year, Peru welcomed Ms. Keiko Fujimori, a third-generation Nikkei, as its President.

This year, Argentina, Paraguay, and the Dominican Republic each held commemorative events marking important anniversaries. In August, Their Imperial Highnesses Crown Prince and Crown Princess Akishino visited Paraguay and had the opportunity to interact with members of the Nikkei community. The close relations that Japan has built with countries around the world today also rest upon the trust and achievements that you have cultivated over many years in your respective local communities. 　

The Convention of Nikkei and Japanese Abroad is a historic gathering that has served as a bridge connecting Japan and Nikkei around the world for 66 years, since the first convention was held in 1957.

I sincerely hope that this year’s convention will further deepen the bonds within the Nikkei communities that we have built together over the years and serve as a foundation for new development toward the future.

I also hope that the wealth of experience and wisdom that each of you gathered here has cultivated over the years will be shared, and that active and constructive discussions will take place, further strengthening not only the ties between Japan and Nikkei around the world, but also the ties between Japan and the international community.

In closing, I sincerely wish this convention every success and extend my best wishes for the good health and continued prosperity of all of you.

Sanae Takaichi
Prime Minister of Japan