Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendations 2009

On Tuesday 13th October 2009, a presentation ceremony for the Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendations took place at the official residence of the Japanese Ambassador. On behalf of the Foreign Minister of Japan, Ambassador Kojima conferred official awards on Mr Shunichi Ikeda and the Canberra Nara Sister City Committee to acknowledge their contributions to the promotion of mutual understanding and friendship between Japan and Australia.

The Foreign Minister’s Commendations recognise people who, at the national level, have rendered distinguished service for the promotion of friendly relations with foreign countries and the fostering of international cooperation.

Commendation Recipients

1. Mr Shunichi Ikeda
Mr Ikeda has made a significant contribution to deepening understanding between the people of Japan and Australia through his work at the Japan Centre at the Australian National University. In 1992, he initiated and established an exchange programme involving 12 Japanese universities. Throughout his academic career, he has also devoted himself to playing an important role in teaching Kabuki to University students, using it as a way to introduce traditional Japanese culture.

Also, since 1972, as a foundation board member of the Australia Japan Society in Canberra, Mr Ikeda has made a great contribution to promoting mutual understanding between the people of Japan and Australia.

In addition, Mr Ikeda has played a vital role in the management of the Japanese Supplementary School in Canberra, which works to preserve and teach the Japanese language to many children living in ACT.

2. The Canberra-Nara Sister City Committee
The Canberra-Nara Sister City Committee, since its establishment in 1993, has developed and maintained the sister city relationship between Canberra and Nara by acting as a coordinator and catalyst for various exchange programmes involving officials, teachers, students and sporting bodies.

The success of the Candle Festival is largely due to the supporting efforts of the Committee. Although small at the beginning, each year has seen the Festival become larger, providing a wonderful opportunity to introduce Japanese culture to Australians.

Also, the Committee has been deeply involved in creating and maintaining Canberra Nara Park in which the Candle Festival is held every year as a symbol of the friendship between Canberra and Nara. It is a wonderful and peaceful space for everyone to enjoy. All Committee members have demonstrated a great affection for Japan and are deeply engaged in their volunteer work.