2018 New Year Reception
On January 16, Ambassador Ishikane hosted the 2018 New Year’s Reception at his residence. Around 130 people attended this lively event, including Japanese nationals and Japanese Canadians living in Ottawa area.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Ishikane referred to the year of 2017 as special, being the 140th anniversary of Japanese immigration to Canada, as well as the 75th anniversary of the internment of Japanese Canadians. He expressed his respect and praise for Japanese Canadians, who have continued to be a strong bridge between Japan and Canada, despite hardships throughout history. Thanking Japanese citizens in Canada for their contribution in people-to-people exchange in various fields, Ambassador Ishikane expressed his enthusiasm for upcoming events in 2018, another special year of the 30th anniversary of the Redress, and the 90th anniversary of Japan-Canada diplomatic relations, for further promotion of bilateral relations. In this regard, he introduced a video clip created by the Embassy to commemorate the anniversary.
Mr. Okumura, Chef of Ambassador Ishikane, prepared a variety of dishes for the occasion, including Osechi (Japanese New Year dishes), sushi and tempura, and Japanese sake from different regions was also served. An ikebana flower arrangement by Ms. Anne Breau, President of the Sogetsu School of Ikebana in Ottawa, and Japanese New Year decorations added a festive atmosphere to the reception.
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