The 79th birthday of Emperor Akihito of Japan was celebrated in Tonga with a reception hosted by the Japanese Ambassador to Tonga, HE Dr Kazuchika Hamuro on 28 November, at his residence in 'Anana, and attended by Tonga's King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau'u.

Tonga's Prime Minister Lord Tu'ivakano said that HM King Tupou VI, the Government and the People of the Kingdom of Tonga conveyed warm and heartfelt wishes to HM the Emperor Akihito.

He said in 2009, the Government of Japan committed to establish an Embassy of Japan in Nuku’alofa. This year the Government of Tonga had reciprocated with the establishment of the Embassy of Tonga in Japan and the appointment of Tania Tupou as the first resident Ambassador.

"The further succession of HE Dr. Kazuchika Hamuro as Japan’s Ambassador to Tonga indicates the strengthening of the cordial diplomatic ties that have existed since 1970, and further marks the continued close and friendly relations between the Royal Family and Imperial Household of our two countries," he said.

"Tonga continues to benefit from Japan’s bilateral assistance programmes, particularly commendable for its size and outreach, and the overarching objective of supporting Tonga’s national development priorities."

Bilateral

HE Dr Kazuchika Hamuro said that 2012 was a year of “achievement” for the Tonga and Japan bilateral relationship. Under the leadership of former Japanese Ambassador HE Mr Yasuo Takase, the Government of Japan had strengthened their friendship this year. "One of the most remarkable events is the completion of the refurbishment of Vaiola Hospital.  This multi-phase project that started in 2004 to renovate and extend the Hospital was successfully completed," he said.

In October, he welcomed HE Ms. Tania Tupou, Ambassador- Designated of the Kingdom of Tonga to Japan.

The warm relationship between Tonga and Japan is also symbolised by the relationship between the Royal Family of Tonga and the Imperial family of Japan, he said.

He thanked Tonga for the donations, encouraging support and condolences to the Great East Japan Earthquake and the tsunami that hit Japan in March, 2011.

"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."