I would like to extend my heartfelt greetings to all the members of the JICA Alumni Association of Nepal (JAAN) on the occasion of the Association’s 45th anniversary, and the publication of the annual issue of Milan Magazine. It is also our pleasure to know that JAAN members have been making various efforts to promote friendship and mutual understanding between Japan and Nepal ever since its foundation in Nepal 45 years ago.

Time flies so fast;nine months have passed already since I came here at the end of May last year. Thanks to everyone’s cooperation, including JAAN, I have been able to carry out my duties successfully as Ambassador.Once again, thank you for your cooperation.

Recently a high-level visit between Nepal and Japan further elevated relations. In November of last year, Hon. Mr. Pradeep Kumar Gyawali,Minister for Foreign Affairs of Nepal, visited Japan and met with Hon. Mr. Taro Kono,Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan,and Hon. Mr. Takamori Yoshikawa,Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan. An inspection tour of high technology agricultural facilities was undertaken at that time. Similarly, in January this year, Hon. Mr. Kono,visited Nepal and met with Hon. Mr. Gyawali, and also paid a courtesy call with, Right Hon. President Mrs. Bidya Devi Bhandari, and Right Hon. Prime Minister Mr. K.P. Sharma Oli.

In addition, the Air Service Agreement, which was signed in 1993, was revised between Japan and Nepal. This revision allows Nepali airlines to operate direct flights to Japan with more points and more frequencies. With that the flow of people will become more active and the friendship between Japan and Nepal will be further strengthened.

Finally, I once again appreciate the contributions of JAAN members towards strengthening relations between Japan and Nepal over the years. Also, I feel very pleased that the knowledge and skills these members, who will be in leading positions in Nepal in the future, acquired in Japan will play a vital role and make continuous efforts to develop Nepal.

I wish for the further growth of JAAN’s activities and for the good health of everyone, and hope your efforts will continue to contribute towards deepening the friendship between the peoples of Japan and Nepal.