Two Japanese Naval Ships, JS Kashima and JS Inazuma with the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force training Squadron have made a port call to Suva after 16 years to promote the friendship between the two nations.
Ambassador of Japan, Masahiro Omura says the visit of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force training Squadron not only enhances cooperation between the security forces of Fiji and Japan but also serves to foster friendship between the people of the two nations based on the common heritage.
The training squadron consists of one officer from the Royal Navy Thai and 188 newly commissioned officers who are undergoing training which is led by their Commander Rear Admiral, Daisuke Kajimoto.
The Japan Maritime Self‑Defense Force has been conducting the overseas training cruise annually since 1957.
Omura says the Embassy of Japan wants to take the rare opportunity to deepen exchange with people in Fiji.
The Training Squadron conducted several Japanese cultural activities such as calligraphy, origami, kendama, and played some traditional toys with the children at the Carnegie Library in Suva.
The Japanese Government also donated sports equipment such as rugby balls, baseball gear such as helmet, gloves, balls and spikes, Judo uniforms, tatami mats, Karate gears and 3 wheelchairs during the reception on board, JS Kashima.
While speaking at the handing-over ceremony, the Minister for Health Ifereimi Waqainabete has thanked the Japanese Government’s support towards Fiji.
The sports equipment are expected to be distributed amongst sporting organisations.
Omura says Japan has been noticing that Fiji is representing Japanese Sports such as Judo and Karate well in the Pacific Games and the equipment will assist them to develop.
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