2016 Emperor’s Birthday Reception

On 29 November, Ambassador Kusaka and Mrs Kusaka hosted a reception to celebrate the birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan at the Ambassador’s Residence.  Approximately 650 guests attended the celebration including the Hon Michael Danby MP, the Hon Ken Wyatt AM, Senator the Hon Don Farrell, representatives from the federal government and federal agencies, embassies, universities, and Japanese companies, as well as members of the Japanese community.

In his speech, Ambassador Kusaka stated that this year marks the 40th anniversary of the Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between Japan and Australia, and that the Japan-Australia Economic Partnership Agreement (JAEPA), which came into effect last year has made a visible impact. He then continued stating that our two countries are cooperating in the areas of security and the Trans Pacific Partnership. The Ambassador also thanked the number of attending Japanese companies for displaying their technology and products. The Ambassador also said that our Prime Ministers have had a several meetings since Prime Minister Turnbull took office and we are expecting the Japanese Prime Minister to visit Australia in the near feature. The Ambassador concluded his speech by stating that next year marks the 60th anniversary of the Japan-Australia Trade Agreement and we hope that it will be an opportunity to further strengthen Japan-Australia relations.

In addition to the product displays and Japanese martial arts performances (Shorinji Kempo, Kendo, and Judo), students from Kaleen Primary School performed both the Japanese and Australian national anthems. Guests also enjoyed Japanese cuisine and drinks including Sushi, Ramen, and Sake in the Japanese garden of the Ambassador’s Residence. Throughout the course of the evening, many guests expressed their appreciation and delighted to attend the reception.

Ambassador Kusaka delivering his speech	Senator Farrell delivering his speech
Shorinji Kempo demonstration	Kendo demonstration	Judo demonstration
Students from Kaleen Primary School performing both Japanese and Australian National Anthems	Display of high-tech interactive robot	Display of latest japanese cars including fuel cell electric vehicles
	Sake tasting