The 78th birthday of HM the Emperor of Japan was celebrated in Tonga with a reception hosted by the Japanese Ambassador to Tonga, HE Mr Yasuo Takase on the evening of December 15 at his residence in 'Anana.

Ambassador Takase commented on the warm and close relations between Tonga and Japan, which marked the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, last year.

He said that the warm relationship between Tonga and Japan was symbolized by the relationship between the Royal Family of Tonga and the Imperial family of Japan. HM King George Tupou V, on a recent visit to Japan in January this year, was received by the Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko, in Tokyo.

The ambassador thanked Tonga for the donations, encouraging support and condolences to the Great East Japan Earthquake and the tsunami that hit Japan in March. "This has been a year of extraordinary challenges for Japan and I was deeply moved by the strength of compassion and sense of solidarity extended by the Government and people of Tonga," he said.

Despite the tragedy, the Government of Japan continued its commitment towards assisting Tonga, including the current construction of Vaiola Hospital and other technical assistance.

Friendship

The Prime Minister, Lord Tu'ivakano in his address, said that Tonga and Japan had long enjoyed a close friendship and fruitful cooperation in many areas such as trade, education and sports.

He said in January, this year King George Tupou V was pleased to meet HM Emperor Akihito to reaffirm the close and personal ties between the Tongan Royal family and the Japanese Imperial household.

Tonga continued to benefit from Japan's bilateral assistance program, supporting Tonga's national development priorities, he said.

The reception was attended by many guests, including the Japanese community and volunteers living in Tonga.

The Embassy of Japan was established on January 1, 2009 and its office is located at the National Reserve Bank of Tonga building.