The reception saw the Embassy play host to a wide variety of guests, for in addition to an appearance by former Prime Minister of Australia, the Hon. Tony Abbott, the reception was attended by many representatives from federal government departments including the Department of Defence and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Australian Defence Force, other embassies and high commissions and their resident defence attaches, as well as representatives from various defence industries.
At the reception, following renditions of the respective national anthems of both countries, speeches were made by Ambassador Takahashi, Lieutenant General John Frewen (representing the Chief of the Defence Force), and the Hon. Tony Abbott. These speeches remarked on the high degree of regard for Japan-Australia defence and security relations, and expressed their high expectations for a further deepening in ties between both countries.
Japanese defence industries also hosted their own exhibition booths, where they introduced guests to Japanese defence products and their related advanced technological capabilities, and which garnered plenty of attention from the guests.
The reception was fortunate to be blessed by lovely weather on the day, and guests were able to enjoy both Japanese cuisine and beverages in the residential gardens. The reception thus presented a fine opportunity to promote understanding of both the Ministry of Defense and the Japan Self Defense Force, and to further mutual interaction between Japanese and Australian representatives.
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