KAGAWARAN NG UGNAYANG PANLABAS
Department of Foreign Affairs

 

I convey my warmest felicitations to the Philippine Nikkei-jin Kai Rengokai, Inc. and our distinguished Filipino and Japanese participants and guests of the 9^th Nikkei-jin Convention at the Diamond Hotel, Manila.

        This year is a milestone year for Philippine-Japan relations marking the 60^th Anniversary of the resumption of its diplomatic relations. At present, the relations of both countries are at their most dynamic and excellent levels. The visit of their Majesties, the Emperor and Empress of Japan, this January further affirms and strengthens the strategic partnership between the Philippines and Japan.

        This convention helps showcase the remarkable developments achieve by the Philippine-Japan relations through the years, in the aftermath of the Second World War until the present-day globalized economy. We hope that it may also serve as a venue to discuss the future role of the next generation of Nikkeijins in deepening their role to helping bring our countries even closer.

        I wish the Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai Rengokai, Inc. more success in its continuing efforts to contribute to the progress of Philippines-Japan relation in the spirit of close friendship and mutual cooperation.

        Mabuhay!

 

ALBERT F. DEL ROSARI                                                                                                                                                               Secretary of Foreign Affairs