Bilateral relations

On February 13 and 14, H.E. Mr. Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah, Chairman of the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority and Chairman of the Japan-Qatar Joint Committee, who was visiting Japan to attend “Seminar on Qatar infrastructure Projects” hosted by the Government of Japan, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, as well as met separately with H.E. Mr. Fumio Kishida, Minister for Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mr. Toshimitsu Motegi, Minister of Economy, Trade and Indstury. H.E. Mr. Al-Attiyah also met H.E. Mr. Akihiro Ota, Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism who was a host for the Seminar. H.E. Mr. Al-Attiyah extended his congratulations to the Japanese Prime Minister and the Ministers on their appointments and exchange views with them about how to achieve the further promotion in the current bilateral relationship in various fields.


Meeting with H.E. Mr. Kishida, Foreign Minister of Japan (Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan)

A Courtesy call by H.E. Mr. Attiyah on H.E. Mr. Abe, Prime Minister of Japan (Photo: Gulf Times on February 14)

February 13, Seminar on Qatar Infrastructure Projects in Tokyo

On February 13, the Government of Japan hosted “Seminar on Qatar Infrastructure Projects” in Tokyo, H.E. Mr. Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah, Chairman of the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority attended the seminar as the guest of honor and head of the Qatari delegation. Total 180 participants attended the seminar headed by Al-Attiyah and H.E Mr. Yusuke Tsuruho, Senior Vice Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transportation and Tourism. Participants exchanged opinions on the infrastructure projects towards FIFA World cup 2022 and the Japanese side gave a presentation related to their own technologies and experiences regarding contraction of football stadiums and Railway projects. Major participants from Qatar were the representatives of General Electricity & Water Corporation (KAHRAMAA), Public Works Authority (Ashugal), Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Qatar 2022 Supreme Committee, Qatar Railways Company, Qataar Airways, etc. From Japanese side, Taisei Corporation, Takenaka Corporation, Obayashi Corporation and Mistubishi Cooperation/Mistubishi Heavy Industry made presentations about their cutting edge technologies, experiences and track record.

After the seminar, H.E. Mr. Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah, President of the Administration Control and Transparency Authority paid a courtesy call to H.E Mr. Ota, Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transportation and Tourism. In order to acquire a better insight on the Japanese construction-related technologies, several member of the Qatari delegation participated in a tour featuring Tokyo Sky Tree -the highest free standing broadcasting tower in the world-, State-of-the-art stadiums such as Nissan stadium and Ajinomoto stadium, and renovation construction site at Shinjuku terminal station.


Opening speech was delivered by Mr. Tsuruho Senior Vice Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transportation and Tourism	Opening speech was delivered by H.E. Mr. Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah Chairman of Administrative Control and Transparency Authority

A bilateral meeting between H.E Mr. Ota, Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transportation and Tourism & H.E .Mr. Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah Chairman of Administrative Control and Transparency Authority	Qatar Infrastructure Project Seminar

Decemeber 10, Emperor’s Birthday Reception

On 10 December 2012, H.E. Mr. Kenjiro Monji, Ambassador of Japan hosted a national day reception at his Residence to celebrate the 79th birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. The reception was attended by H.E. Dr. Hamad Bin Abdulaziz Al-Kuwari, Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage as the guest of honour as well as more than 260 distinguished guests from various government and private sectors, diplomatic corps and Japanese community. The function started with the national anthems of the State of Qatar and Japan respectively followed by a welcome speech by Ambassador Monji. Then, Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage, Dr. Al-Kuwari and Ambassador Monji graced the cake-cutting ceremony with huge applauds from the invitees. (Details of Ambassador’s speech can be found “here”)


Ambassador Monji with H.E Dr. Al-Kuwari, Minister of Culture	Ambassador Monji with the invitees

Ambassador Monji delivering the welcome speech	Cake-Cutting Ceremony with H.E Dr. Al-Kuwari, Minister of Culture

Guests enjoying the reception	Ambassador Monji with Mr. Kontani president of Japanese Society and the vice president Mr. Kawai

October 7, Visit of H.E. Dr. Takashi MORITA, Vice-Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications

On October 7th, Vice-Minister Morita paid a courtesy call on H.E. Dr. Khaled Bin Mohammed Al-Attiyah, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, and exchanged views on how to promote the bilateral relationship as well as the possibility of future cooperation in the postal field. On October 9th, Vice-Minister Morita visited Al-Jazeera Satellite Station and saw the program-making scenes and exchanged opinions with staff members there.


Vice-Minister Morita pays a courtesy call on H.E. Dr. Al-Attiyah, Minister of the State for Foreign Affairs	Vice-Minister visits Al-Jazeera Satellite Channel Station.

Vice-Minister during his visit to Al-Jazeera at one of the studios

Sep 24 - Oct 15, The 25th Congress of Universal Postal Union and Visit of H.E. Dr. Takashi MORITA, Vice-Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications

The 25th Congress of Universal Postal Union (UPU) convened every four years was held in Doha from September 24th to October 15th. During the Congress, H.E. Dr. Takashi MORITA visited Qatar to attend the Ministerial Session held on October 8th, and the reception hosted by the Government of Japan on the occasion of the Congress in which nearly 800 invitees participated. On October 10th, elections for the Council of Administration and the Postal Operations Council (POC) were held and Japan was elected in both elections. In addition to that, Mr. Metoki, Vice President (International Affairs) of Japan Post Co., Ltd., was elected as a Chairperson of the POC, and it was the first time that Japan occupies a chairmanship of the UPU internal organizations. Finally, Ambassador Monji signed new documents of UPU on October 14th to conclude the whole sessions of the Congress which lasted about 3 weeks.


H.E. Dr. Morita, Vice-Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications, attends the Ministerial Session of the UPU Congress.	A view of the Congress Venue during the speech of Vice-Minister H.E Dr. Morita

Vice-Minister Morita delivering a speech during the reception	Ambassador Monji delivering a speech during the reception

The reception hosted by the Governemt of Japan	Guests at the reception hosted by the government of Japan

Ambassador Monji signs some new documents of UPU.

October 7-9, Good-will Visit to the Doha Port by Two Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Forces Minesweepers “URAGA” and “HACHIJO”

From October 7 to 9, two vessels of the Mine Warfare Forces of Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Forces (JMSDF), Minesweeper Tender URAGA (displacement tonnage; 5,650t) and Minesweeper Ocean HACHIJO (displacement tonnage; 1,000t) berthed at the Doha Port. This time, two vessels made a tour to the Gulf countries. After participating in the minesweeping exercises at the sea of Bahrain, the two vessels made port calls in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE (Dubai). It has been eleven years since JMSDF’s vessels conducted a good-will visit to Qatar. During the berthing, an open ship for Japanese residing in Qatar was held and many Japanese including pupils of the Japanese School in Doha took part in this event.


Arrival of URAGA and HACHIJO (behind URAGA) in the Doha Port	Ambassador Monji, Colonel Sato (Defense Attache of the Japanese Embassy) and representative of the Qatari Naval Forces receive URAGA

Ambassador Monji receives the salute of a guard of honor	Courtesy call by the Commander of the Mine Warfare Forces on Ambassador Monji

Visit of Pupils of Japanese School in Doha

August 27-28, 37th Japan Cooperation Forum for the Middle East in Doha

The Japan Cooperation Center for the Middle East (Chairman: Mr. Hiroshi Okuda) held the 37th Japan Cooperation Forum for the Middle East in Doha on 27 & 28 August 2012 at the Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, for the first time in Qatar.

Mr. Hiroshi Okuda delivered opening address of the Forum followed by remarks from H.E. Mr. Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah, President of Administrative Control and Transparency Authority as the gust of honor. H.E.Mr. Kenjiro Monji, Ambassador of Japan to Qatar, delivered a welcomes address.

Mr. Okada Vice Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) made a presentation on their policy of MENA countries and Dr. Masayuki Yamauchi, Professor Emeritus, the University of Tokyo, explained recent developments of the Middle East area. Several Ambassadors of Japan to MENA countries and Mr. Matsutomi, Director General, Middle East & African Affairs Bureau of Japan presented them respective country report and discussed the recent development on MENA issues.

Business Reports by Private Enterprises were also presented and the participants exchanged their views on a wide range of issues from MENA regarding recent situation to business matters.

Top Japanese business leaders, intellectuals, Japanese ambassadors to the MENA countries, high ranking Japanese government officials and Japanese business representatives residing in the region participated in the Forum. The number of participants was estimated to be around 300.


Welcome Speech by H.E. Mr. Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah, President of Administrative Control and Transparency Authority	Welcome Speech by H.E Mr.Kenjiro Monji, Ambassador of Japan

(From left)Mr.Okada,Vice Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Mr.Okuda,chairman of the Forum, Mr. Abdullah Al-Attiyah,President of Administrative Control and Transparency Authority and Ambassador Monji	Bilateral Talks between Chairman Okuda & Al-Attiyah,President of Administrative Control and Transparency Authority

Guests at the Forum venue	Article at Qatar Tribune Newspaper on the Forum

August 13, Ambassador Monji paid a courtesy visit to Director General of Al Jazeera

On 13 August, Ambassador Monji paid a courtesy visit to Sheikh Ahmed Bin Jassim Al-Thani, Director General of Al Jazeera Satellite Channel and exchanged views on Qatar-Japan bilateral relations and other issues. Ambassador Monji emphasized that our relations have become closer in these days and expressed his wishes to take advantage of the 40th anniversary year of establishment of Japan-Qatar diplomatic relations in order to diversify our relations beyond economy into other areas such as Culture, Education, Science and Technology and Sports. Sheikh Ahmed mentioned the way to further strengthen cooperative relations between Japan and Al Jazeera.

July 24-25, Visit of Ambassador Monji to the devastated area of Tohoku region

On July 24-25, during his temporary return to Japan, Ambassador Monji visited the devastated area by the Great East Japan Earthquake, which received the assistance from Qatar. On July 24, Ambassador Monji visited the Adachi high school at Fukushima prefecture where he met with six out of the ten school students who visited Doha last February under the Qatari invitation program and he exchanged views with them. The students expressed their wishes to maintain the good relations with Qatar in the future and they also expressed their gratitude to Qatar. In addition, Ambassador Monji gave a lecture to 450 students of the first and the second grades regarding the Qatari situations and the relationship between Japan and Qatar.


(Ambassador Monji exchanging views with the students from the Adachi High School at Fukushima prefecture)	( With the Students who visited Qatar)

(Ambassador Monji delivering a speech to the students)	(Students listening to Ambassador Monji's speech)

On July 25, Ambassador Monji visited Onagawa city at Miyagi Prefecture where he visited the devastated area along side with meeting with Mr. Suda, Mayor of Onagawa city and workers at fishery industry such as Onagawa City Fish Market. In addition, Ambassador Monji also visited the construction site of the Fishing Processing Center funded by the Qatar Friendship Fund with the $100 Million assistance from Qatar which is scheduled to open on September. Officials of Onagawa city expressed their deepest gratitude to Qatar for this project which is considered the core of city’s rehabilitation.


(Ambassador Monji shaking hands with Mr. Suda, Mayor of Onagawa city)	(Exchanging views with the officials from Onagawa City Fish Market)

(At the construction site of the Fishing Processing Center)	(Destruction made by the Great East Japan Earthquake as seen in Onagawa City)

(Ambassador Monji joining his hands in pray at the memorial for the victimes of the Great East Japan Earthquake)	(View of a temporary shopping street in Onagawa City proceeding toward reconstruction)

June 12, Ambassador of Japan holds Reception on the occasion of the appointment of Non-Resident Defense Attaché in Qatar

On 12 June 2012, Mr. Kenjiro Monji Ambassador of Japan hosted a　reception at his residence on the occasion of the appointment of Colonel　Kiyoshi Sato, resident Defense Attaché at the Embassy of Japan in Kuwait, as a non-resident Defense Attaché in the Embassy of Japan in Qatar. Their Excellencies the Ambassadors, Officials from Qatar Armed Forces and military attachés of other countries attended the reception.

Ambassador Monji said that the appointment of Colonel Sato is timely since this year coincides with the 40th anniversary year of Japan-Qatar diplomatic relation, mentioning “Japan and Qatar agreed to diversify and expand our relations beyond economy, especially energy, to cover other areas including defense.”

Also, introducing some examples of Japan’s contribution to the peace and stability in the Gulf and the Middle East, such as the refueling operations in the Indian Ocean to support OEF, and the dispatch of destroyers and P-3C maritime patrol aircrafts to waters off the coast of Somalia and the Gulf of Aden to fight against piracy, Ambassador Monji said “against this background, the cooperation between Japan and Qatar in the area of security and defense has been gaining its importance.”

Ambassador Monji introduced some examples of cooperation between the two defense authorities which has made much progress recently; the acceptance by the Qatari side of the SDF trainees of Arabic language, the exchange of students between Qatar’s Military College and Japan’s National Defense Academy, high-level bilateral exchanges and staff-level talks both in Tokyo and Doha, and participation of Japan in seminars and exercises hosted by Qatar.

Colonel Sato, on his part, said that he is happy to be able to work in Qatar and said “In light of the growing importance of the Japan-Qatar bilateral relationship, I would like to work closely with officers in Qatar Armed Forces so as to further promote the bilateral cooperation in the field of defense.”


(Ambassador Monji delivering a speech at the reception)	(Mr. and Mrs. Monji and Mr. and Mrs. Col. Sato with some attendants)

(Guests in the reception)	(with attendants from Qatar Armed Forces)

Visit of H.E. Mr. Joe Nakano to Qatar

On the morning of 22 April 2011, H.E. Mr. Joe Nakano, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, paid courtesy calls on H.E. Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Attiyah, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, as well as on H.E. Mr. Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah, President of Administrative Control and Transparency Authority. During the meeting, they discussed issued related to the bilateral relationship and ways to promote them, as well as issues of common interests. On the afternoon, Mr. Nakano delivered a statement on the UNCTAD meeting, and also attended World Investment Forum held on the sideline of the UNCTAD meeting. Also, Mr. Nakano exchanged opinions with representatives of Japanese companies in Doha.


(Courtesy Call on H.E. Mr. Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah, President of Administrative Control and Transparency Authority)	(Courtesy Call on H.E. Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Attiyah, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs)

(During the delivery of the Statement in UNCTAD)	(During the delivery of remarks in World Investment Forum)

(Japanese Delegation at Qatar National Convention Centre)	(Meeting with representatives of Japanese Company at the residence of Ambassador)

Qatar Friendship Fund

On April 18, H.E. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Muhammed Al-Thani, Assistant Minsiter for International Cooperation made an official announcement that Qatar will provide 50 million US dollars to help rebuild the fishing industry in the three north-eastern prefectures in Japan which were badly affected by the 3.11 earthquake and tsunami. The allocation is a part of the 100 million US dollars (Qatar Friendship Fund) pledged by the Qatari government last year to help reconstruct areas devastated by 3.11 disaster. QFF's first project supports include construction of a fish processing facility in the town of Onagawa in Miyagi Prefecture. Mr.Tetsuya Besyo was appointed as a goodwill Ambassador of QFF.

Commencement Ceremony of the 40th Anniversary of Japan-Qatar Diplomatic Relations

On January 18, H.E. Mr. Kenjiro Monji hosted a reception at his residence with the presence of Japanese citizens in Doha to commence the 40th anniversary year of establishment of Japan-Qatar diplomatic relations. H.E.Mr. Monji said in his opening remark that the Embassy would host various Japanese events in Doha under the project “Qatar Japan 2012” in close cooperation with the Government of Qatar. H.E.Mr. Monji also emphasized the importance of diversifying the bilateral relations beyond economy into other areas such as culture, education, science and technology, sports and tourism. And Mr.Midori Yajima who won the 1st Prize for the Asia Shooting Championships held in Qatar and secured a representative post of the London Olympics also attended the ceremony and gave a remark.

SEMINAR on INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS and WATER and WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGY

On January 15, the “SEMINAR on INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS and WATER and WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGY in QATAR” was held at Grand Hyatt Doha. This seminar is based on the Joint Statement on Further Deepening of Bilateral Economic Relations between Japan and the State of Qatar (October, 2011), there were around 200 representatives from both public and private sectors and they discussed on potential infrastructure projects in preparation for the 2022 FIFA World Cup as well as a seminar on water and wastewater management technology. The seminar was held under the patronage of H.E. Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Attiyah, President of the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority.From Japanese side, H.E. Kyoichi Tsushima, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and Ambassador Monji attended the seminar.

Democratic Party Members of Japan-Qatar Parliamentary Association for Friendship’s Visit to Qatar(12-13 January 2012)

On January 12 and 13, 9 Democratic Party Members of Japan-Qatar Parliamentary Association for Friendship paid an official visit to Qatar (Chairman H.E. Mr.Yutaka Banno, H.E.Mr. Osamu Yoshida, H.E.Mr.Koichiro Katsumata, H.E.Mr.Hirotaka Matsuoka, H.E.Mr.Yoshikazu Mukouyama, H.E.Mr.Hiroyuki Moriyama, H.E.Mr.Motohiro Ono, H.E.Ms.Yumiko Himei, and H.E.Mr.Koushin Fujitani, Members from the House of Councillors and Representatives), paid courtesy calls and held talks with leaders including H.H.Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar. In each meeting, they agreed to deepen bilateral ties in diverse areas such as not only economic sectors but also culture and education fields upon the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.

H.E.Mr.Koichiro Gemba(Japanese Foreign Minister)’s Visit to Qatar(8-9 January 2012)

On January 8 and 9, Japanese Foreign Minister H.E.Mr.Koichiro Gemba made an official visit to Qatar and paid courtesy calls to H.H.Sheikh Tamim and Sheikha Mozah, also H.E.Mr.Gemba held talks with several Qatari leaders including H.E.Mr.Abdullah AlAttiya, President of Administrative Control and Transparency Authority, H.E.Dr.Khalid AlAttiya Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, H.E.Dr.Mohammed AlSada, Minister for Energy and Industry, H.E.Dr.Hamad AlKuwari, Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritages and Sheikha AlMayassa, Chairman of Qatar Museums Authority. Upon the meetings, H.E.Mr.Gemba expressed his gratitude toward the assistance of $ 100 million and the additional supply of LNG pledged by the Government of Qatar after the Great East Japan Earthquake. Furthermore, they agreed to step up their economic-centered relations to the more multi-layered levels such as culture, education, tourism and cooperation in the international arena. Also, H.E.Mr.Gemba highly evaluated the active diplomacy of Qatar as a mediator to resolve both regional and international issues.

The 40th anniversary project "Qatar Japan 2012"(21 December 2011)

On December 21, the Qatar National Day Reception was held at the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo, in which the 40th anniversary project “Qatar Japan 2012” was officially launched. Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry H.E.Mr.Yukio Edano, Former Prime Minister Mr.Yasuo Fukuda, Former Defence Minister Ms.Yuriko Koike, Deputy Secretary General of Democratic Party Mr.Shinji Tarutoko attended the reception. H.E.Ambassador Monji also attended to make a speech regarding the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Qatar. He said, “we would like to strengthen our mutual understanding and further deepen our bilateral relations through the 40th anniversary events both in Qatar and Japan”.　A video "Qatar Japan 2012 Celebrating 40 Years of Friendship", which was jointly produced by Qatar Museums Authority and the Embassy of Japan, has already been posted on Youtube. （http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oh_DvcyIR7k&context=C30eb1fdADOEgsToPDskKiISe）
Qatar Museums Authority also launched a website regarding the 40th anniversary events both in Qatar and Japan （http://www.qatarjapan2012.com）.

Emperor's Birthday Reception(7 December 2011)

December 7th, H.E. Mr. Kenjiro Monji, Ambassador of Japan hosted a reception evening at his Residence, in order to celebrate the 78th birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan, which is also regarded as the National Day of Japan. H.E. Dr. Mohammed bin Saleh Al-Sada, Minister of Energy and Industry attended the reception as the guest of honour. The function started with the national anthems of the State of Qatar and Japan respectively followed by a welcome speech by H.E. Ambassador Monji. Their Excellencies, Minister of Energy and Industry and the Ambassador of Japan graced the cake-cutting ceremony. The reception was attended by hundreds of dignitaries including H.E. Dr. Mohammed bin Saleh Al-Sada, Minister of Energy and Industry, their Excellencies ambassadors and officials from various governmental and private organizations, the diplomatic corps as well as members of the Japanese community in Qatar.

World petroleum Congress(4-8 December 2011)

The World Petroleum Congress was held in Qatar for the first time in the Middle East. More than 200 Japanese attendees were present and many Japanese companies exhibited their stands including the Japanese internal committee.Ambassador Monji attended the opening ceremony as well as the reception hosted by the internal committee and gave a remark.

Civil Defence Safety Conference(15 November 2011)

On 15 November, Mr. Tetsuo Ibaraki, Senior Researcher at Asian Disaster Reduction Center in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture in Japan, has delivered a lecture on lessons learnt through the devastating earthquake and tsunami which hit the Northen East of Japan on 11 March 2011, on the occasion of the 2nd Safety Conference – Qatar Vision 2030 “Century Challenges” held in Katara (Cultural Village). Mr. Ibaraki, an expert on disaster prevention, was invited to this conference organized by Qatari Civil Defense to deliver a lecture on this subject. Mr. Ibaraki explained the huge damage caused by this earthquake and tsunami, the response measures taken by the Japanese authorities, and how to best utilize the lessons learnt through this unprecedented disaster.

EcoQ EXPO(16-18 October 2011)

ecoQ EXPO was held ecoQ at the Doha Exhibition Centre. Six Japanese firms (Mitsubishi, Mitsubishi Heavy Industry, Sharp, Taisei, Lixil and Naturock) established the Japanese pavilion to showcase visitors Japan's advanced environmental technologies and products. In addition, the Special Advisor to the Japanese Cabinet Mr.Tadashi Maeda gave a presentation about "The Japanese Strategy on Deployment of the Integrated Infrastructure to Overseas Market" to talk about the possibility of contributing to the general eco urban development in the Middle East.

6th Japan-Qatar Joint Economic Committee(6 October 2011)

Japan-Qatar Joint economic Committee was held in Tokyo. Foreign Minister H.E.Mr.Genba, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry H.E.Mr.Edano, Deputy Prime Minister H.E.Mr.Al-Attiyah, and Minister of Enegy and Industry H.E.Dr.Al-Sada reconfirmed the importance of expanding the energy cooperation and stressed the firm intention to create better business environment between the two countries.

His Highness the Emir Congratulates Japan's new Prime Minister(31 August 2011)

On 31 August, His Highness the Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani sent a congratulatory telegram to His Excellency Mr. Yoshihiko Noda on the occasion of the latter’s election as Japan’s Prime Minister. His Highness the Deputy Emir and Heir Apparent Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and His Excellency Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jabr Al-Thani also sent similar congratulatory telegrams to Mr. Noda on this occasion.

Ambassador Monji meets H.E.Deputy Premier(17 August 2011)

On August 16, Ambassador Monji had a meeting with H.E. Mr. Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah, Deputy Premier and Chief of the Emiri Diwan, and discussed issued related the bilateral relationship in various fields including economy and culture and ways to further develop it. Also, Ambassador Monji handed over to H.E. the Deputy Premier a letter from H.E. Banri Kaieda, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan, expressing the appreciation by the Government of Japan to the assistance extended by Qatar following the Great East Japan Earthquake.

Photo:Gulf Times (17 August 2011,P2)

H.E. Mr. Hisashi TOKUNAGA Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan visits Qatar(17 July 2011)

On Sunday 17 July 2011, H.E. Mr. Hisashi Tokunaga, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, visited Qatar, and paid a courtesy call on H.H. the Deputy Emir and Heir Apparent Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani at Sea Palace. H.E. Mr. Tokunaga discussed with His Highness the ways to further promote the bilateral collaboration, as well as conveyed the appreciation by the Government of Japan to the State of Qatar for its kind assistance following the Great East Japan Earthquake.

H.E. Mr. Tokunaga also visited the construction site of the main terminal for the New Doha International Airport. He also attended a meeting held in the residence of Ambassador Monji with the representatives of Japanese companies in Doha.

Remarks of appreciation by H.E. Kenjiro Monji Ambassador of Japan for the kind support of the State of Qatar and its people for the victims of Great East Japan Earthquake

H.H. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani the Emir has decided to generously donate, on behalf of the people and the Government of the State of Qatar, 100 million US dollars as a contribution for Japan’s reconstruction efforts following the Great East Japan Earthquake. In this regard, I would like to express my profound appreciation on behalf of the people and the Government of Japan,. I sincerely hope that such a huge contribution will reach to many sufferers in need as soon as possible.

Immediately after the earthquake struck, we have received the kind offer from the State of Qatar for its readiness to extend every possible assistance. We also received from many people here encouraging messages as well as kind donations to help victims and sufferers of the disaster.. Furthermore, we welcome and appreciate Qatar’s initiatives through Qatargas to supply Japan with additional four million tonnes of Liquefied Natural Gas to resolve the expected demand- supply gap in electricity, so that Japan can continue to carry out promptly and smoothly its reconstruction effort.

Japan has overcome many difficult challenges in the past to create the peaceful and prosperous society that exists today. I am confident that, by calling on the resilience and determination of its people and with the support from the international community, the nation will surmount this tragedy.

I wish to express once again our sincere gratitude for the strong bond of friendship shown by our Qatari friends and I genuinely hope that bilateral relationship between Japan and Qatar will be further developed

May 1, 2011
Kenjiro Monji
Ambassador of Japan to Qatar

Message from Prime Minister H. E. Naoto Kan, one month after 2011 Tohoku Pacific Ocean Earthquake:Kizuna - The Bonds of Friendship -(11/4/2011)

Kizuna
- The Bonds of Friendship -

April 11, 2011
[Provisional Translation]

One month has passed since the Great East Japan Earthquake, which caused over 13,000 people to lose their lives in the enormous earthquake and tsunamis that struck. Even now, over 14,000 people remain unaccounted for, and about 150,000 people remain forced to take shelter as evacuees. I extend my heartfelt sympathy to all the people who have suffered as a result of this disaster, both Japanese nationals and non-Japanese, and to their families.

We are currently mobilizing all resources to bring the situation at Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station under stable control and working to stabilize the situation there at the earliest possible time.

This one month since the great earthquake has been an extremely arduous time for Japan. Yet at the same time, it has been a period during which Japan has once again realized, and once again given thanks, that we stand together with the world.

Thus far, over 130 nations and regions, nearly 40 international organizations, a number of nongovernmental organizations and people from all around the globe have extended their best wishes to us, and moreover they have expressed their support and solidarity through donations and other means. Various countries and regions rushed in rescue workers to swiftly conduct rescue operations in the affected areas swiftly and delivered
supplies such as food, medical supplies, and blankets. This assistance also brought wholehearted encouragement to the disaster victims. In addition, we have received thousands of origami paper cranes intently folded by children in distant nations wishing for the reconstruction of the disaster-stricken areas.

Also from the State of Qatar, we have received the kind offer for its readiness to extend every possible assistance. We also received from many people here encouraging messages as well as kind donations for reconstruction.

On behalf of the people of Japan, I extend my heartfelt thanks for such assistance from all around the world.

There is no doubt that Japan will recover, become vibrant again, and become an even more marvelous country. In living up to the cordial encouragement and solidarity extended to us by the international community, I consider walking down the road to such a rebirth to be incumbent upon us, and the best way for Japan to reciprocate your kind concern. It is my firm conviction that through the fundamental strengths inherent to the Japanese people and the cordial cooperation of the international community, we can achieve this without fail.

I am also determined that Japan will certainly repay, through our contributions to the international community, the cordial assistance we have received from around the world.

To that end, I will work to the best of my ability to realize reconstruction of Japan.

Naoto Kan
Prime Minister of Japan

A friend in need is a friend indeed

الكيزونا هي روابط الصداقة

۱۱ أبريل ۲۰۱۱

لقد مضى شهر على كارثة زلزال شرق اليابان والتسونامي الضخم، وهي الأحداث التى أودت بحياة أكثر من ثلاثة عشر ألف شخص، وما زال هناك أكثر من أربعة عشر ألف شخص مفقود، كما أجبرت الكارثة أيضاً حوالي مائة وخمسين ألف شخص على اللجوء إلى مساكن الإيواء. وإنني أتقدم بخالص التعازى القلبية إلى كل المنكوبين وذويهم، سواء كانوا مواطنين يابانيين أو أجانب.

فيما يتعلق بوضع محطة فوكوشيما دايئيتسى للطاقة النووية، نحن نبذل الآن أقصى جهدنا لتحقيق استقرار الوضع في أقرب وقت ممكن مع حشد جميع طاقاتنا وقوانا من أجل تهدئة الموقف.

لقد شهدت اليابان فترة عصيبة للغاية خلال الشهر الذي مضى منذ وقوع هذه الكارثة، إلا أن هذه الفترة، في الوقت ذاته، جعلتنا ندرك مجدداً أن العالم يقف إلى جانبنا، ولذا فإننا نقدّر ذلك.

لقد تلقينا رسائل التعازى والتعاطف من أكثر من مائة وثلاثين دولة وكيان ومن ما يقرب من أربعين منظمة دولية والعديد من المنظمات الغير الحكومية، ومن شعوب جميع أنحاء العالم. كما تم إظهار الدعم والتضامن من خلال تقديم التبرعات لنا. وهناك أيضاً أمر مهم شجّع المنكوبين تشجيعاً كبيراً وهو وصول فرق الإنقاذ من مختلف الدول والكيانات وسرعة البدء في عمليات الإنقاذ في المناطق المنكوبة وإرسال المساعدات مثل المواد الغذائية والإمدادات الطبية والبطاطين علاوةً على توصيل آلاف الكراكي الورقية الصغيرة التي صنعها أطفال من بلدان بعيدة بكل جهد، أملاً في تحقيق إعادة إعمار المناطق المتضررة.

وكذلك أعربت دولة قطر الصديقة عن عرضها الكريم لاستعدادها لتقديم كل المساعدات الممكنة. كما تلقينا من كثير من الناس هنا كلمات تشجيع وتبرعات كريمة لإعادة الإعمار.

بالنيابة عن الشعب اليابانى، أتقدم بخالص امتناني وعميق شكري لكل من قدّم هذه المساعدات من كل أنحاء العالم.

وإنني أؤكد لكم وأطمئنكم أن اليابان ستُبعث وتُولد من جديد، وسوف تصبح بلداً أكثر روعة. إن مهمة اليابان الآن هى أن تمضي قُدماً نحو إعادة بناء البلد وتحقيق آمال المجتمع الدولى الذى أظهر كل هذا التضامن والدعم. وإنني أعتقد أن هذا هو أصدق تعبير عن العرفان بالجميل. وأنا على يقين من أن القدرة الحقيقية للشعب اليابانى وتعاون المجتمع الدولي سوف يمكناننا من القيام بهذه المهمة.

ونحن مصممون على رد الجميل تجاه الدعم الذي تلقته اليابان من شعوب العالم، وذلك من خلال المساهمة الإيجابية لتحقيق مصالح المجتمع الدولي.

من أجل ذلك فإننى أبذل كل ما بوسعي للتعافي من هذه الكارثة.

رئيس الوزراء الياباني
ناوتو كان

الصديق الحقيقي هو الصديق في وقت الضيق

Great East Japan Earthquake (Announcement by the WHO on April 5th)

Following the accidents in nuclear power plant, the World Health Organization (WHO) has announced in its website (http://www.who.int/en/) on April 5th that there are no health risks so far to people living in other countries from radioactive material released from the Japanese nuclear power plants as below.

1. No health risks outside of Japan from damaged nuclear plants

5 April 2011 -- There are no health risks so far to people living in other countries from radioactive material released into the atmosphere from the Japanese nuclear power plants. Radiation levels measured to date in other countries are far below the level of background radiation that most people are exposed to in normal, every day circumstances.

2. FAQs: Japan nuclear concerns

Current risk (http://www.who.int/hac/crises/jpn/faqs/en/index.html)
*Below are the excerpts from the WHO website

What is the current risk of radiation-related health problems in Japan for those residing near the reactor in comparison to those in other parts of Japan?

Radiation-related health consequences will depend on exposure, which is dependant on several things, including: the amount and type of radiation released from the reactor; weather conditions, such as wind and rain; a person’s proximity to the plant; and the amount of time spent in irradiated areas.
The Government of Japan’s recent actions in response to events at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant are in line with the existing recommendations for radiation exposure. The Government has evacuated individuals who were living within a 20-kilometre radius around the Fukushima Daiichi plant. Those living between 20 km and 30 km from the plant are being asked to evacuate voluntarily. In general, people living farther away are at lower risk than those who live nearby.
As and if the situation changes, the Government of Japan may change their advice to the public; WHO is following the situation closely.

Is there a risk of radioactive exposure from food contamination?

Yes, there is a risk of exposure as a result of contamination in food.
However, contaminated food would have to be consumed over prolonged periods to represent a risk to human health.
The presence of radioactivity in some vegetables and milk has been confirmed and some of the initial food monitoring results show radioactive iodine detected in concentrations above Japanese regulatory limits. Radioactive caesium has also been detected.
Local government authorities have advised residents to avoid these food and have implemented measures to prevent their sale and distribution.

Are there health risks to people living outside of Japan from radiation emitted into the atmosphere from damaged Japanese nuclear power plants?
Thus far, there are no health risks to people living in other countries from radioactive material released into the atmosphere from the Japanese nuclear power plants. Radiation levels measured to date in other countries are far below the level of background radiation that most people are exposed to in every day circumstances.

Radiation levels are being monitored by the Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO), which operates 63 surveillance stations around the world.

Latest Information on Current Radiation Levels in Japan

On April 1, 2011, IMO (International Maritime Organization) and ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) has issued press releases of the same content, in which they announced;

Radioactive material from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi plant is gradually spreading outside Japan into the global atmosphere but at extremely low concentrations that do not present health or transportation safety hazards, according to the United Nations closely monitoring the situation.

Screening for radiation of passengers arriving from Japan is currently considered unnecessary at airports or seaports around the world.

The UN agencies involved in the monitoring process are the World Health Organization, the International Atomic Energy Agency, the World Meteorological Organization, the International Maritime Organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization and the World Tourism Organization.

-----------------------------------------
Below is the text of the above mentioned press release:

CURRENT RADIATION LEVELS IN JAPAN AND TRAVEL ADVICE

Japanese authorities confirm that all airports in the country, with the exception of Sendai which was affected by the tsunami of 11 March, continue to operate normally for both international and domestic operations. Continuous monitoring around these airports confirms that radiation levels are well within safe limits from a health perspective.

For updates, travelers visiting Japan by air are advised to consult a dedicated website established by the Japanese Civil Aviation Bureau:
http://www.mlit.go.jp/koku/flyjapan_en/.

Japanese authorities also confirm that all international seaports not damaged by the earthquake and tsunami are operating normally and that no health risk has been detected around the ports, based on the results of measurements of radiation levels by local governments.

Further information covering all aspects of the response of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan, as well as information regarding the radiation dose in Tokyo Bay can be found on the following websites:
http://www.mlit.go.jp/page/kanbo01_hy_001411.html
http://www.mlit.go.jp/kowan/kowan_fr1_000041.html

Screening for radiation of passengers arriving from Japan is currently considered unnecessary at airports or seaports around the world.

Further information is available on the website of the World Health Organization - www.who.int

----------------------------------------------
Please also refer to:
IMO (http://www2.icao.int/en/newsroom/default.aspx)
ICAO Newsroom (http://www.imo/org/Pages/home.aspx)

Japan Earthquake Donation

The largest earthquake and tsunami ever recorded in Japan hit the country on March 11 and caused a devastating damage. There are many casualties and missing people. The major infrastructure suffered severe damages. The aftershocks are continuing and the damage is still spreading.
The Government of Japan is exerting utmost effort to cope with this unprecedented disaster by taking all possible measures including those to contain damage from the nuclear power plants.
On behalf of the Government and the people of Japan, I would like to extend our gratitude for sympathies and condolences received from many people in Qatar.
HH the Emir Sheikh Hamad Khalifa Al Thani and HH the Heir Apparent Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani sent cables of condolences to HM the Emperor of Japan. The Government of the State of Qatar offered to send an emergency relief team and provide relief supplies.
The challenge to reconstruct the nation will be enormous. Yet, I believe that Japan and Japanese people will be able to overcome this national crisis, as has been the case in the past.
I would like to thank you once again for your support.

Kenjiro Monji
Ambassador of Japan

Donations to support people affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami are now being accepted as mentioned below. (Donation is now accepted also in the Embassy’s special bank account as mentioned in below 3.)

1 Bank Transfer to the Japanese Red Cross Society

Please transfer the donation to the following bank account. The donation will be sent from the Japanese Red Cross Society to the Distribution Committee, which is formed around the local government of the disaster-affected prefecture and to be distributed directly among the affected population of earthquake and tsunami.

Name of Bank: Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
Name of Branch: Ginza
Account No.: 8047670 (Ordinary Account)
SWIFT Code: SMBC JP JT
Payee Name: The Japanese Red Cross Society
Payee Address: 1-1-3 Shiba-Daimon Minato-ku, Tokyo JAPAN

2 Embassy of Japan

Though the most prompt way for you to send the donation is the direct transfer to Japanese Red Cross Society as mentioned above, the Embassy also accepts the donations for those wishing to bring donations to the Embassy. The donations can only be accepted by cash (either Qatar Riyal,or US dollars only) as mentioned below. The donations received will be remitted by the Embassy to the above mentioned special account of the Japanese Red Cross Society for the assistance to the victims and sufferers of Tohoku Pacific Earthquake.

If you want the issuance of “Receipt,” please submit the “Receipt Claim” which you can get at the Consular Section with necessary information filled in.

Place: Consular Affairs Section
Time: From 08:00 to 15:00 (Sunday to Thursday) (Except the Embassy’s Designated Holidays)

3 Transfer to the Embassy’s Special Bank Account

Please send your donation (only Qatar Riyal and US dollars) to the below mentioned bank account.　 The donations received will be remitted by the Embassy to the above mentioned special account of the Japanese Red Cross Society.

If you want the issuance of “Receipt,” please bring a document proving the remittance of the donation to Consular Affairs Section of the Embassy, and submit it with the “Receipt Claim” which you can get at the Consular Section with necessary information filled in. (The Embassy cannot accept the request of the Receipt by Fax because of the necessity to issues the original of the Receipt. Thank you for your understanding.)

Name of Bank: Standard Chartered Bank
Account No.:01-2740532-05 (For Qatar Riyal, Ordinary Account)
02-2740532-05 (For US Dollars, Ordinary Account)

Payee Name: Embassy of Japan
Payee Address: P.O.BOX 2208 DOHA QATAR

2. Information on Political/Economic Relations

Political Relations

(1)Diplomatic relations

Sep 1971 Recognition of the State of Qatar by Japan
May 1972　Diplomatic relations were established
Jan 1973 Embassy of Qatar in Japan was established
May 1974 Embassy of Japan in Qatar was established

(2)VIP Visits

From Japan to Qatar

2007 Prime Minister Shinzo Abe 2007 Prime Minister Shinzo Abe 2007 Prime Minister Shinzo Abe

Year	Name
1978	Prime Minister Takeo Fukuda
1994	Their Imperial Highnesses Crown Prince and Princess
1997	Chief Cabinet Councillor for External Affairs (Special Envoy for PM Ryutaro Hashimoto), Hiroshi Hirabayashi
2001	Minister for Foreign Affairs Yohei Kono
2001	Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Takeo Hiranuma; Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Tsutomu Takebe; Senior Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Shigeo Uetake (the 4th WTO Ministerial Meeting)
2003	Secretary General, Liberal Democratic Party, Taku Yamazaki; Secretary General, New Komeito, Tetsuzo Fuyushiba; Secretary General, New Conservative Party, Toshihiro Nikai; Member, House of Representative, Gen Nakatani
2007	Prime Minister Shinzo Abe
2008	Special Envoy of the Prime Minister, Hiroshi Okuda
2009	Special Envoy for UN Reform and Ambassador in Charge of Peacebuilding in Africa,Keitaro Sato
2010	Vice-Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Tadahiro Matsushita Special Envoy of the Government of Japan for the Middle East, Yutaka Iimura

From Qatar to Japan

Year	Name
1993	Foreign Minister Hamad Bin Jassim Bin Jabor Al-Thani
1995	Minister of Justice Najeeb Mohamed al-Naimi
1997	Minister of Municipal Affairs and Agriculture Ali Bin Said Al-Khayareen
1999	Foreign Minister Hamad Bin Jassim Bin Jabor Al-Thani
1999	Emir and Minister of Defence H.H. Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani
1999	Deputy Prime Minister Mohamed Bin Khalifa Al-Thani
1999	Minister of Public Health Hajar Ahmad Hajar
2000	Minister of Finance, Economy and Trade Yousef Hussein Kamal
2001	Spouse of the Amir of the State of Qatar H.H. Sheikha Mozah Nasser Abdullah Al-Misnad
2002	Minister of Finance Yousef Hussein Kamal
2005	Emir of the State of Qatar H.H. Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani
2009	Heir Apparent H.H. Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani

　(Since 1993) Annual Visit: Deputy Premier and Minister of Energy and Industry Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah

Economic Relations

　　　It is needless to say that Qatar and Japan continue to enjoy a very strong economic partnership overall. Japan has been number one trading partner of Qatar for last few years.

1. Bilateral Trade :

1.1 Energy Sector
　　　Speaking in historical terms, the Qatar – Japan energy relation expands over a span of three decades. Japan is a long time buyer of Qatari crude oil, and mostly over 50% of Qatar’s crude oil is exported to Japan. In Year 2008, Qatar exported 837,000 b/d of crude oil to Japan which constitutes 54.1% of Qatar’s total oil exports. On the other hand, we should also not forget that Japan was the first customer of Qatari LNG, thus providing a solid base for marketing of Qatari LNG in the world. In Year 2008, Japan imported 8.2 mtpa of Qatari LNG.

1.2 Goods & Services
　　　Looking at trade between Qatar and Japan, latest statistics put Japan as the top trading partner of Qatar, both in terms of imports and exports. Japan total imports from Qatar stood at m$ 26,237 during year 2008, which constitute 46% of Qatar’s total exports. Japan’s imports from Qatar are mostly crude oil and LNG. As we mentioned earlier, as much as about 54% of Qatari crude oil and nearly 27% of Qatari LNG is exported to Japan.
　　　As far as Japanese exports to Qatar are concerned, the figure stood at m$ 2,010, which represents Japan’s share of (7%) of total Qatar Imports during year 2008. Vehicles, machineries and electronics constitute the major portion of Japanese exports to Qatari market.

2. Strategic Partnership

　　　In April 2006, on the occasion of International Energy Forum (IEF) held in Doha, Qatar’s Deputy Premier and Minister of Energy & Industry, H.E. Mr. Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah and H.E. Mr. Toshihiro Nikai, Japanese Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, held a meeting to further expand and strengthen bilateral cooperation and signed a Joint Statement to establish the “Japan – Qatar Joint Economic Committee”.
　　　Based on this Joint Statement, the “Japan – Qatar Joint Economic Committee” was officially launched in November 2006 during the visit of Deputy Premier and Minister of Energy & Industry H.E. Mr. Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah to Japan. This joint Economic Committee has been held every year since 2006. The fourth committee took place in November 2009.
　　　Both sides also agreed to set up a working group on energy, as well as another working group on business environment and investment. The purpose of the working group on energy is to have a continued dialogue on energy related matters and to maintain and expand trade and investment in the field of oil and natural gas including LNG and GTL. Another working group aims at proposing and developing an action plan for the improvement of business environment in order to further increase trade, investments and business opportunities between the two countries.

3. Project Financing

　　　Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) is playing a vital role in financing the energy related projects in the region. Realizing the importance of the region, JBIC opened its branch in Dubai in April 2006, which caters for the entire Middle East region. Recently, JBIC signed a business-partnership agreement with Qatar Petroleum (QP). Under the agreement, the JBIC will contribute by financing and extending loans for Qatar’s energy related projects which will provide opportunities and broaden the scope for Japanese companies to cooperate more actively in big projects for the further development of Qatar.

4. Presence of Japanese Companies in Doha

　　　There are 32 Japanese companies (as of September 2009) having their offices in Qatar, and playing an effective role in the development of Qatar’s industrial infrastructure in general, particularly the energy sector, including LNG industry, both in terms of construction and financing, is commendable.
Some of big projects have been operated by Japanese Companies as below.
Qatargas, RasGas expansion: Chiyoda
Pearl GTL: JGC, Chiyoda, Toyo
New Doha Air-Port:Taisei (Main terminal building), Takenaka(Emiry terminal building)
Ras Laffan-C IWPP:Mitsui
Mesaeide A IPP:Marubeni
Japanese companies will seek further business chances.

5. Shipping

　　Besides, in transportation sector also, Japanese firms have been playing and will continue to play an important role in Qatari energy sector. No LNG can reach to consumers without capable vessels and their safe operation. Japanese shipping lines including NYK Lines, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines and Iino Shipping with their profound experience and expertise in the field of LNG transportation, has made it possible for those lines to serve as stakeholders and/or operators of Qatar’s first 10 vessels. As Qatari LNG export grows, getting closer to its target of 77mn tons per annum, Japanese shipping lines will continue to be important players, seeking further share in this sector.

6. FTA Negotiations

　　　One more important development during 2006 was the initiation of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations between Japan and GCC. Both sides agreed in May 2006 to launch the negotiations. The first round of the negotiation was held in September in Tokyo and the second round of negotiations took place in Riyad in January 2007. Both sides are determined to speed up the negotiations to conclude an agreement at the earliest possible time. Signing of FTA will open the new dimensions of cooperation between Japan and GCC including Qatar.

　　　These are some of the glimpses of the relations between Japan and the State of Qatar, which I hope will be furthermore developed in future under the dynamic leadership of both countries.

Japan's Crude Oil Imports from Qatar (Yearly) : (source: Qatar National Bank)
	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009
Qatar's Total production (Thousand brl / day)	779	810	819	837
Japan's Total imports (Thousand brl / day)	467	510	442	453	433
Japan's share of total Qatar's Oil exports	59.9%	63.0%	54.0%	54.1%

11.8% of total Japan's crude oil imports is from Qatar.
Qatar is the 3rd place country for Japan which provides crude oil.

Japan's LNG Imports fromQatar (Yearly)
Actual (SPA's and Spot) Mtpa	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009
Qatar's Total LNG Exports	22.2	25.1	27.4	30.4
Qatargas LNG Co.	9.9	9.5	9.4	9.7
Rasgas LNG Co.	12.3	15.6	18.0	20.7
Japan's Total LNG Imports from Qatar	6.23	7.84	8.76	8.74	8.03
Japan's share of total Qatar's LNG exports	28.0%	31.2%	32.0%	28.8%

　　11.8% of total Japan's LNG imports is from Qatar.
　　Qatar is the 4th place country for Japan which provides LNG.

Qatar Trade with Japan (source: Japan External Trade Organization)　　　　　　　（ｍｎ＄）
	2002	2003	2004	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009
Qatar Exports	5,243	6,496	7,876	10,692	14,814	16,942	26,237	15,942
Qatar Imports	370	473	592	994	1,460	1,841	2,010	1,629
Total	5,613	6,969	8,469	11,686	16,274	16,274	28,247	17,571

　　Major portion of Japanese exports : vehicles, industrial materials, electric cables
　　Major portion of Japanese imports : crude oil, LNG, LPG

Number of Residents
　　　Number of Japanese Nationals residing in Qatar: about 1,104(as of January 2010)

Japan-Qatar Relations（Ministry of Foreign Affairs）
　　　http://www.mofa.go.jp/region/middle_e/qatar/index.html