A vibrant ceremony at the Social Centre in Male’ marked the 10th anniversary of the Japanese Embassy’s presence in the Maldives, underscoring a deepening partnership built on shared cultural curiosity and mutual assistance.
Addressing guests, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Iruthisham Adam highlighted the surge of interest in Japanese culture among Maldivians in recent years.
“Japanese cuisine—sushi and matcha—has become a favourite on our islands, while anime and other entertainment products are capturing the imagination of our youth. The exchange of cultures and customs will further strengthen the long‑standing relations between our two nations,” she said.
The Minister thanked Japan for its relentless support across educational, economic and visa‑facilitation realms.
Japanese Ambassador to the Maldives Ishigami Rumiko echoed the sentiment, emphasising that Japan will continue to prioritise its close friendship with the island nation.
“Japan will remain one of the Maldives’ closest countries. We give special priority to assistance that helps change customs and improve lives,” she told PSM News.
The Ambassador also expressed optimism about increasing Japanese tourist arrivals to the Maldives in the coming years.
The event featured a live Kendo demonstration, symbolising the martial arts tradition that Japan has introduced to the Maldives. In honour of the anniversary, Japan donated a set of Kendo equipment, which Ambassador Ishigami handed over to local officials.
Diplomatic relations between the two countries were first established on 15 November 1967, and the Japanese Embassy—initially accredited from Colombo—was officially opened in Male’ ten years ago, in 2016.