Nicosia: Japan's principled and consistent support for Cyprus, particularly on the Cyprus issue, and the steadily deepening relations between the two countries were reiterated by the country's Ambassador, on Thursday evening, during an event hosted by the Embassy of Japan in Nicosia to mark Emperor Naruhito's 66th birthday.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Ambassador of Japan to Cyprus, Satoshi Iwasaki, reaffirmed that the Government of Japan will continue its contributions to a peaceful and viable solution on the island, based on the relevant United Nations resolutions, as a member of the G7 and the United Nations so that the people of Cyprus may live in a secure environment. He said that 'as a true friend of Cyprus, the Government and people of Japan will always stand alongside the Government and the people of Cyprus in their efforts to achieve peace and a stable society.'
Addressing the reception, Minister of Transport, Communications and Works, Alexis Vafeades, expressed the Government's 'sincere appreciation for Japan's principled stance on the Cyprus issue and for its consistent support for efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive settlement, in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions.'
Referring to the European dimension, the Minister said that Cyprus attaches great importance to the partnership between the European Union and Japan, noting that this stands as an essential pillar of stability and constructive international cooperation. 'As the current Presidency of the Council of the European Union, we remain steadfast in our commitment to further elevate this strategic relationship, fostering deeper coordination and forward-looking initiatives in areas of common interest. In a period marked by complex regional and global challenges, the steady course of relations between Cyprus and Japan offers a reassuring example of what can be achieved through trust, consistency, and shared purpose,' said Vafeades. He also expressed his confidence that the cooperation between the two countries will continue to deepen in the years to come.
He noted that the friendship between Cyprus and Japan rests on firm foundations such as mutual respect, a clear convergence of interests, and shared outlook as like-minded partners committed to peace, stability, and the consistent application of International Law.
'These elements continue to shape a reliable productive and forward-looking relationship,' Vafeades said, welcoming the steady development of collaboration in areas of innovation, education, maritime affairs, culture, and broader international engagement.
'Exchanges between our societies, especially among younger generations and academic communities, play an essential role in sustaining this positive momentum,' he said.
In his remarks, Ambassador Iwasaki shared parts from the Emperor's address at the start of the year, highlighting that Japan 'is a country that respects universal values and the spirit of international cooperation among different stakeholders in order to realize peace and stability in Asia and the Pacific and around the globe.'
He reaffirmed Japan's position on the Cyprus problem, stating that his government will continue its contributions to a peaceful and viable solution based on the relevant United Nations resolutions, as a member of the G7 and the United Nations, so that the people of Cyprus may live in a secure environment.
The Ambassador noted that Cyprus and Japan have developed excellent relations through bilateral and international cooperation since the establishment of diplomatic relations during the last 64 years. He also referred to the establishment of the Embassy of Japan in Cyprus in January 2018 and to his assumption of duties last October as the fourth Ambassador, saying that his contacts with Cypriot society and his experience of the island's nature and history have deepened his affection for its people.
Iwasaki also highlighted that in 2025 the Japanese Government conferred upon Costas Papacostas, OLY, President of the Cyprus Olympians Association (KEOA), the Order of the Rising Sun - Gold and Silver Rays, one of Japan's highest honours. Papacostas became the first Cypriot to receive the decoration, in recognition of his contribution to the promotion of judo in Cyprus and to the strengthening of relations between Japan and Cyprus.
During Thursday's event, for the Emperor's 66th birthday, the national anthems of Cyprus and Japan were performed by the Cyprus Symphony Orchestra. The opening remarks were followed by a traditional 'Kanpai' toast and a reception, with the Ambassador expressing hope that the evening would further contribute to the development of friendship and cooperation between the two countries.