HILARY HOSIA
Toasts were exchanged between Acting Foreign Minister David Paul and Japan Ambassador Soma Hirohisa in honor of Emperor Naruto’s birthday last Friday at the Marshall Islands Resort.
Emperor Naruto turned 65 this year.
The Marshall Islands has been celebrating the imperial event since the establishment of the bilateral relationship with Japan in 1988.
In his keynote speech, Ambassador Soma said Japan is open and willing to work with diplomatic donors to develop RMI’s infrastructure, energy and social health. Soma also announced an increase of Japan International Cooperation Agency volunteers from 14 to 17 within the year. The JICA volunteers are spread between Ebeye and Majuro providing vital expertise in various areas.
Minister Paul congratulated the government of Japan and reiterated RMI’s support to the people and government of Japan on behalf of President Hilda Heine.
And as tradition, the head table was invited to break the sake barrel in what is known as “kagami biraki.” The head table consisted of Council of Irooj Chair Lanny Kabua, President Hilda Heine, Minister David, Speaker Brenson Wase, Chief Justice Carl Ingram and Ambassador Soma.