大使のサイト

１ . At 2:46 p.m. on March 11 th, an unprecedented earthquake struck north east Japan. It was such a horrendous disaster that it shocked not only the Japanese, but people all around the world. There are thousands of people suffering even today and long lasting support is still needed.

But in this desperate situation, some positive things have emerged. We have received great help from around the world. 163 countries and regions, and 43 international organizations offered assistance and out of which, 29 sent rescue teams to Japan. We really appreciate all the support.

As Ambassador of Japan to Denmark, I’d like to express my heartfelt gratitude for the immense help we have received from Denmark. The generosity of Danish companies in the aftermath of the disaster was overwhelming. There was no hesitation among Danish people and companies to help Japan. This shows that the Danes are really friends in need. I want to thank you again for your great efforts and support.

 

2. In June, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Frederik visited a town heavily affected by the tsunami and, only last week, Their Royal Highnesses Prince Joachim and Princess Marie also visited Japan. They invited children from the affected area to Tokyo on the occasion of the opening of the Her Majesty The Queen’s decoupage exhibition. I’d like to take the Royal family members’ visits to Japan twice after March 11 th as an important friendly message to the Japanese people.

 

3. I’d also like to mention the invaluable help from the Danish local municipalities. Fredensborg Municipality invited 16 Japanese children to Denmark for 10 days. Next year, Egmont Højskole in Jutland will invite 10 disabled people from the affected area to stay for about 6 months. I have no doubt that this help will greatly contribute to the furtherance of the friendship between Denmark and Japan. We are indebted to the hospitality of the Danes.

 

4. Since the disaster, we have been putting all efforts into reconstruction and recovery. The economy of the affected area is gradually but steadily recovering and the supply chain of industries is nearly back to normal. Unfortunately, in some cases, affected farmers are suffering from groundless rumours about their products. To avoid misunderstanding, we will continue to provide accurate information quickly about the situation at the nuclear power stations and about food safety.

 

5. The horrific earthquake and tsunami washed away towns, cars and precious human lives, but after the disaster, the Japanese have rediscovered the importance of solidarity and caring for each other. I think all of Japan has come together as one.

In a devastated field, we found some cherry trees that had survived and these trees actually bloomed this spring. Like the trees, we believe that Japan will blossom again.

 

6. Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentleman, I am very happy to welcome you today to our National Day Reception to celebrate the 78 th birthday of His Majesty, the Emperor Akihito of Japan.

 

With these remarks, let me propose a toast to the health and happiness of the Emperor and everybody here as well. Thank you.