31 March 2015
Minister of Culture receives Japanese Ambassador
H.E Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al-Khalifa, president of Bahrain Authority for Culture & Antiquities (BACA), received on 31 March 2015, the newly-appointed Japanese ambassador to the kingdom of Bahrain, Mr. Kiyoshi Asako and discussed bilateral relations and cooperation mainly in the cultural field and ways to enhance historic relations. H.E said that Bahrain is looking forward to continued cooperation with Japan, especially as Manama celebrates this Year of Heritage under the slogan ‘Our Heritage... Our Wealth’, adding that constant cultural cooperation between Bahrain and Japan will result in many genuine Japanese artistic events being hosted by the National Theater.
During the meeting, H.E Shaikha Mai hailed strong bilateral cooperation mainly in the cultural field pointing out that many Japanese cultural and art events had been scheduled as part of Manama Asian Tourism City 2014 ‘Our Year of Art’ programme. These events included the organization of a Japanese fashion show, the Makie art expo, Pink Martini & Japanese Saori Yuki and last, but not least, the gorgeous music mix between the magic mystery of the East and world music in the Arts Festival in Asilah 36th International Cultural Forum, Morocco. The festival showcased a variety of different compositions by the Bahrain National Orchestra, led by Missa Johnouchi, the acclaimed Japanese conductor and UNESCO ambassador for peace.
Ambassador Kiyoshi Asako, for his part, stressed the role of culture in promoting increased understanding between Japan and Bahrain, renowned for its unique openness and diversity. The Japanese ambassador stressed the need to open new channels for bilateral cooperation in all fields, including culture, expressing his delight to discover the glorious and wonderful Bahraini civilizations, culture and heritage, which are exhibited for the visitors at the National Museum. H.E also expressed his appreciation and admiration for the cultural movement and diversity in Bahrain, which proved worthy of hosting such regional and international events, such Manama Asian Tourism City 2014, Manama as Arab Tourism 2013, and Manama as Capital of Arab Culture 2012. The Japanese ambassador wished Bahrain further progress and prosperity, lauding its deep-rooted history and its unique world-wide cultural experience.
