PR and Culture Event in 2012

12 - 22 December “Japan Booth” at “the 23rd Doha International Book Fair”

The Embassy set up “Japan Booth” at “the 23rd Doha International Book Fair”, to which Japan was invited as a Guest of Honor, in cooperation with Japan Foundation, Publishers’ Association for Cultural Exchange and Support Committee for Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and Qatar. H.H. the Emir, H.E. Mr. Abdullah Al-Attiyah, Chairman of Administrative Control and Transparency Authority, H.E. Dr. Al-Kuwari, Minister of Culture, visited “Japan Booth”. Three pillars of “Japan Booth” were “Display of Books”, “Sale of Books” and “Various Events on Japanese Pop Culture”, and the Booth attracted lots of visitors as the last event to celebrate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Moreover, Books Kinokuniya (Dubai branch) participated in the Book Fair for the first time. Manga and goods related to Japanese Anime were flying off the shelves.

Costume Play Show (designed by Ms. Kanna) and Kawaii Fashion Show (co-starred with Ms. Misako Aoki and Ms. Fumiko Kawamura), both of which were produced by Mr. Takamasa Sakurai, attracted large audiences. Many Qatari fans of Ms. Sumire Uesaka (voice actress) came to her talk show and enjoyed cultural exchanges beyond.

Ambassador Monji cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony.	Japanese ladies in Kimono received H.E. Dr. Al-Kuwari, Minister of Culture.
Ambassador Monji and Qatari Volunteers at the reception	Sale of Japanese books by Books Kinokuniya at Japan Booth
Many Qataris enjoyed Costume Play Show.	18 volunteer models took part in Kawaii Fashion Show.
Ms. Sumire Uesaka (voice actress) and Qatari fans	Writing names by Japanese (Kanji character) attracted visitors.
Japan Booth celebrated National Day.	Former and present executives of Japanese Society who headed 40th Anniversary Committee

 

14 - 15 December Robot Lecture and Demonstration by Mr. Tomotaka Takahashi

On 14 and 15 December 2012, Mr. Tomotaka Takahshi, Robot Creator visited Doha and gave a Robot lecture and demonstration on the event stage which was set up in Japan booth at Doha international book fair. Mr. Takahashi presented “Ropid” and “Evolta”, which are his own creation, to show the light movement to the audience. At the Q&A session following the lecture, Mr. Takahashi had lively exchanges with the audience and gave another Robot demonstration which received big waves of applauds.

Welcome Speech by Ambassador Monji	Audience listening to the lecture
"Robid" the Robot Demonstrating his moves	Robot Demonstration by Evolta

 

17 ~ 24 November Japanese film screening at Doha Tribeca Film Festival

On 20th November, Ambassador Monji attended a screening of “Japanese Snapshots” in Doha Tribeca Film Festival (DTFF) at Museum of Islamic Arts with Mr. Akihito Izuhara, Director of “LI.LI.TA.AL”, and Mr. Seigo Tono, Director of Japanese shortshort film festival. Ambassador Monji thanked Doha Film Institute (DFI) for the screening of Japanese films at DTFF and briefly explained the theme of screened films.

On 24th November, “My Neighbor Totoro” was screened at Katara Drama Theatre as the final film event of “Qatar Japan 2012” on the last day of the DTFF. With this film, Ambassador Monji passed the baton to the United Kingdom for “Qatar UK 2013”. The ceremony took place in the presence of Mr. Abdulaziz Al-Khater, CEO of Doha Film Institute, Ms. Ludmila Cvikova, Head of International Programming of DFI and the full audience.

Speech by the Ambassador on the screeing of "Snapshots"	Audience at the MIA Auditorium
Ambassador's speech at the screening of the movie "My Neighbor Totoro"	Coverage of the event at Gulf Times Newspaper December 2.

 

13 ~ 15 November WISE (World Innovation Summit for Education)

WISE initiated by H.H. Sheikha Moza (President of Qatar Foundation) was held at the Qatar International Convention Center. More than 1,200 people from around the world involved in the field of education got together to discuss the issues of education. Under the theme “Collaborating for Change”, Ambassador Monji as well as 6 Japanese guests and some journalists participated in this summit.

Opening speech by Sheikha Moza (President of Qatar Foundation)	Announcement of the WISE Prize for Education at the opening plenary session
H.H. Emir Hamad awarded the 2012 WISE prize to Dr. Madhav Chavan, CEO of Pratham	Discussion about the issues of education at Wise

12 ~ 14 November, Qatar Tour of Kashima Antlers (U17, U16, U15)

U17, U16, U15 Kashima Antlers visited Qatar to participate in the mini football tournaments with Aspire Academy (Qatar) and Anderlecht (Belgium). Ambassador Monji and Mrs. Monji watched the game and cheered for the young Japanese players. Ambassador Monji hoped that some Japanese players who joined this tour will play in the World Cup 2022 in Qatar.

Ambassador Monji encouraged the young Kashima Antlers’ players	The games were held at the Aspire Sports Academy
The game with Anderlecht (Belgium)	Photo with U17, U16, U15 Kashima Antlers

7 November, Ambassador Monji and Mr. Murakami, Japanese Language Expert visited Tariq Bin Ziyad Independent Secondary School for Boys

On November 7, Mr. Yoshifumi Murakami, a Japanese language expert from Japanese Cultural Center in Cairo and Ambassador Monji visited Tariq Bin Ziyad Independent Secondary School for Boys, which has started teaching Japanese language to its students following the decision of the Supreme Education Council (SEC) to introduce Japanese language in independent schools’ curriculum as an optional second foreign language from current academic year 2012-2013.

Ambassador Monji attended the meeting held between the Principal of the School, Mr. Hamad Al-Mannai, SEC officials and Mr. Murakami and conveyed his gratitude for introducing Japanese language in the independent school in the year of 2012, which celebrates the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Ambassador Monji also expressed his hopes that the incorporation of Japanese language into the independent schools’ curriculum would enable the Qatari youth to enhance their understanding of not only Japanese language but also Japanese culture and Tariq bin Ziyad School would be the starting point for teaching Japanese language in more independent schools in the future.

Ambassador Monji and Mr. Murakami, Japanese Language expert receive a memento from Principal Hamad	Commemorative photo with the students who received a certificate of commendation
Japanese Language Class	Ambassador Monji Exchanging Views with Ms. Reema, Director of Curriculum Standard Office and Principal Hamad

Coverage of the Visit at Gulf Times Newspaper(8/11)

1 November ~ 1 December, Intangible Brides by “Kimiko Yoshida”

As a part of celebrations to mark the 40th anniversary of Japan Qatar diplomatic relations, Ms. Kimiko Yoshida, a Japanese photographer living in France, holds her individual exhibition “Intangible Brides” at Katara (Bldg. 19). H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji and Mrs. Monji attended the opening ceremony on 4 November. “Intangible Brides” by Ms. Kimiko Yoshida exhibits many works inspired by the Middle Eastern and North African traditional dress and accessories. There are some works that she is a model and her gallery drew a large number of visitors.

Many VIPs were present at the opening ceremony.	H.E. Ambassador Monji and Mrs. Monji appreciated each work with the guidance of Ms. Yoshida
Ms. Yoshida explaining her work.	H.E. Ambassador Monji was interviewed by Qatar TV.

22, 23 October, “Japanese Dance & Music –Omnibus from Popular Theatre Scenes– “

Under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Al-Kuwari, Minister of Culture, as a part of “Qatar Japan 2012” project, the Embassy hold “Japanese Dance & Music –Omnibus from Popular Theatre Scenes–” at Katara in cooperation with the Human and Cultural Exchange General Incorporated Association with the support of Katara. This show was realized by the joint team with Kengeki Harukomaza, a popular theatre troupes in Japan, and the Revue Team composed of famous Japanese actresses. The highlight of the show was that some actors impersonated beautiful women, some actresses also played the role of cool men. Wearing a wide variety of Japanese costumes also attracted the audience. After the performance, a photo session was held by the players in their costumes.

This show was especially made for the performance in Qatar. The performers and staff of the “Japanese Dance & Music”, on behalf of the Japanese people, expressed their gratitude to the people and the Government of Qatar for their kind and generous support for the Great East Japan Earthquake.

A wide variety of Japanese traditional costumes attracted the audience.	The audience erupted into applause in the scene of sword fight
Sakura Sakura, a beautiful dance by the Revue Team	Finale Dancing by all performers made the audience excited.
Mr. Ryu Tsugawa wearing a lady costume in the 17th to 19th century.	The Drama Theater was almost full by the audience.
Photo Session with the performers after the event	H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji and Mrs. Monji with Kengeki Harukomaza and the Revue Team

12 October, Japanese Music Project Concert

On 12 October, the Embassy of Japan, under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Hamad Bin Abdulaziz Al-Kuwari, Minister of Culture, Arts & Heritage, organized a music concert by a Japanese musical group “Japanese Music Project” at Qatar National Theatre as a part of the on-going celebrations to mark the 40th anniversary of Qatar Japan diplomatic relations.

The event was a great success as the Japanese musicians captivated the audience with their marvelous performance and at times collaborated with Arab musicians (Marasi Ensemble) from Qatar Music Academy amazingly producing a cocktail of Japanese and Arabic melody which was overwhelmingly enjoyed by the music-loving audience and praised with standing-ovations after their performances.

Recital from Koto, Shakuhachi and percussion	Recital by Bamboo Flute, Oud and Ozutsumi
A collaboration between Japanese and Arabic side	At the End of the Concert

Coverage of the Concert at Gulf Times Newspaper(10/14)

27 September ~ 1 October, Qatar Week: Firjan in Tokyo

Ambassador Monji attended “Qatar Week: Firjan in Tokyo”, which literally means “neighborhood” in colloquial Qatari Arabic. Qatar Week in Tokyo was the major events held in Japan from September 27 to October 1. The event was launched with the graceful presence of Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado and H.E. Mr. Abdulla Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah, Chairman of the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority, and other high ranking officials from Qatar.

The souk (Arab traditional market) appeared in Roppongi city to host exhibits from various Qatari organizations and institutions and showcased a number of cultural projects through Qatari artists’ performances of entertainment, a number of informative talks and presentations. Thousands of visitors each day had the experience of its historical and traditional heritage as well as its business and commercial activities. The screening of Arabic films also took place during the event.

Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado & H.E. Mr. Abdulla Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah, Chairman of the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority.	Speech by Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado
Ambassador Monji and participants from Qatari side	Photo of the the esclator inside Roppongi Hills
Qatar Week 1	Qatar Week 2
Qatari Traditional Dance	Arabic Calligraphy

20 September, Lecture on “Japanese Costume Play & Harajuku Fashion” by Mr. Takamasa Sakurai

Mr. Takamasa Sakurai, Contents Media Producer, gave a lecture with the theme of “Japanese Costume Play & Harajuku Fashion ~Influence of Anime & Manga~” at the class room of the Islamic Art Museum. Japanese language students, Japanese pop culture fans, and people interested in Japanese fashion joined in this lecture. After the lecture, the Embassy held a reception with Japanese food. Participants enjoyed conversations on Japanese pop culture with H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji and Mr. Sakurai.

Opening speech by H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji	Mr. Sakurai’s frank speaking attracted audience.
Reception with Japanese Food	Photo with participants

19 September, Model Auditions by Mr. Takamasa Sakurai

Mr. Takamasa Sakurai, Contents Media Producer, will produce fashion shows (Japanese Kawaii Fashion and Costume Play) at the Japanese Booth at the 23rd Doha International Book Fair (from 12 to 22 December) to which Japan is invited as the Guest of Honor. In preparation for these fashion shows, the Embassy and Mr. Sakurai held auditions to select volunteer female models at the Japanese Ambassador’s residence. Many female applicants from various nationalities attended the audition. Eventually, 27 models were selected for the shows through impartial judgments by H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji, Mrs. Monji and Mr. Sakurai.

Opening speech by H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji	One shot from the Audition
Models assembled in the hall.	Group photo with H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji and Mr. Sakurai

12 September, Book Donation to the Qatar Eastern Language Center

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji donated 67 Japan-related books to the Qatar Eastern Language Center (QELC). About 50 students (Qataris and foreigners) are learning Japanese language in QELC. These donated books are expected to help students to study Japanese. Mr. Abdulghani, who acquired Japanese language in QELC, will go to Waseda University in autumn this year. Ambassador Mr. Monji encouraged him to be a bridge between Japan and Qatar in the future.

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji and Mr. Azuma, Director of QELC	H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji and Mrs. Monji, and QELC’s students

30 June ~ 13 July 13th Asian Men’s Junior Championship (Handball)

Asian Men’s Junior Championship (Handball) was held in Doha. Japanese team came in the 5th place (out of 14 teams). Although Japanese team missed a ticket to Junior World Championship 2013 that will be given to the top three teams in this championship, young Japanese players made good games in the main round. Many Japanese living in Qatar, who came to cheer Japanese team, were moved by Japanese players’ brave figure.

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji celebrated Japanese players after winning the game with Iraqi team in the preliminary round.	Handball Junior Japanese Team
Japanese players (blue) in the heated game with Korean team	Japanese player’s shoot (blue)

21 June Book Donation to the Qatar Olympic Committee

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji donated 13 books related to Japanese martial art including Judo, Karate, Kendo, and Aikido, to H.E. Sheikh Saoud Bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, Secretary-General of the Qatar Olympic Committee. Ambassador Mr. Monji mentioned that those books will help Qatari athletes excelling in their respected fields of martial arts to educate themselves about Japanese “Bushido”.

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji and H.E. Sheikh Saoud Bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, Secretary-General of the Qatar Olympic Committee

19 June Book Donation to the Supreme Education Council

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji presented 58 Japan-related books to the Supreme Education Council (SEC). Ambassador Mr. Monji and Ms. Al-Haidoos, Director of the Education Institute of the SEC, also discussed ways of enhancing cooperation in the field of education. With respect to SEC’s decision to introduce Japanese language as one of the optional second foreign languages in the official curriculum of independent schools affiliated to the SEC, Ambassador Mr. Monji said “the SEC’s decision to teach Japanese language to Qatari students is of great significance and timely as the two countries are celebrating 40th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.”

Ambassador Mr. Monji and Ms. Al-Haidoos, Director of the Education Institute of the SEC, (next to the Ambassador)	Ambassador Mr. Monji exchanged opinions regarding Japanese language education in Qatar with Ms. Al-Haidoos

16 June The 4^th Qatar Japanese Speech Contest

The Embassy of Japan and the Japanese Teachers’ Association in Qatar (JALTAQ) in cooperation with the Qatar Museums Authority and Museum of Islamic Art organized the 4th Qatar Japanese Speech Contest. H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji and Mrs. Monji and more than 160 audiences including people studying Japanese and students interested in Japan attended the contest. 20 Japanese learners in Qatar participated in this year’s contest. They demonstrated the fruits of their hard work and 9 speakers won prizes. Winners received certificates from Ambassador Mr. Monji and prizes donated by Qatar Airways, 51 East, Midori Sushi, Qatar Eastern Language Center, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, and Mitsubishi Corporation. The event ended with a reception where all the participants and audience could foster their friendship while enjoying the Japanese food

Speakers delivered a speech in Japanese	Ambassador Mr. Monji and Ms. Al Anoud Al-Hajri, winner of the 1st Place of Category C (Free Speech)
Speakers and members of the jury	Reception with the Japanese Food

6 June Japanese Book Donation to the Qatar National Library

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji presented 48 Japan-related books to the Qatar National Library. The total number of books donated by the Embassy to the Qatar National Library since 1987 now reached 843. Mr. Abdullah Nasser Al-Ansari, Director of the Department of Public Libraries and Director of the Qatar National Library, mentioned that that new national library scheduled to be open in 2014 would set up the Japanese Corner.

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji and Mr. Al-Ansari, Director of the National Library.	H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji and Mrs. Monji visited the restoration room.

June3 Visit to Tarik Bin Ziyad Independent Secondary School for Boys

On 3 June, Mr. Izuru Shimmura, Counselor and Deputy Head of Mission, visited Tarik Bin Ziyad Independent Secondary School for Boys in Doha, which decided to introduce Japanese Language as one of its selective subjects in 2012-2013 academic calendar. Mr. Shimmura discussed with Mr. Hamad Mohammed Shabib Al Mannai, Principal of the school, the future cooperation between the Embassy and the school, and delivered a speech in Arabic touching on Japan-Qatar relationship as well as the importance of learning Japanese. Mr. Al Mannai, on his part, expressed the appreciation for the Embassy’s cooperation and gave the Ambassador Monji and his staffs appreciation certificates, and requested the Embassy to continue to extend the assistance. Thanking the introduction of the teaching of Japanese in the school, Mr. Shimmura presented some study books of Japanese language for Arabic learners, saying that the Embassy will continue the cooperation with the school. Mr. Al Mannai has been invited to visit Japan between June and July 2008 under an invitation program by Japan Foundation.

Shimmura delivered a speech in front of the students of the school	Mr. Al Mannai presents the appreciation certificate

May29 Japanese Book Donation to the Community College of Qatar

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji presented 26 Japan-related books to the Community College of Qatar (CCQ). Dr. Edmund Herod, Acting Dean of the CCQ, and many Qatari students joined in the ceremony. This is the first book donation to the CCQ which was established two years ago. On this occasion, the Embassy of Japan expects to build cooperative relations with the CCQ in the field of education.

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji and Acting Dean Dr. Edmund Herod	H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji and Mrs. Monji explained the donated books.

May 28 International Friendly Match between U16 Japanese National Football Team vs. U16 Aspire Academy

Japan’s U16 National Football Team played against Qatar’s U16 Aspire Academy in Doha. The Embassy of Japan regarded this friendly match as part of cerebrating events of “40th anniversary year of Japan-Qatar diplomatic relations”. Many Japanese living in Qatar came to the stadium for cheer. H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji and Mrs. Monji watched the game and cheered for the young Japanese players. Although the Japanese national team was beaten by 0-5, both countries’ players are expected to be good rivals toward the World Cup 2022.

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji encouraged the Japanese players before the game.	U16 Japanese National Football Team
The game was held at the pitch of the Aspire Sports Academy.	Photo with children living in Qatar after the game

 

May15 Japanese Book Donation to Qatar University

On May 15, on the occasion of the Ending Ceremony of World Book Day 15 May, 2012, held at Qatar University, H.E. Mr. Kenjiro Monji, Ambassador of Japan presented 176 Japan-related books to the University with the presence of H.E. Dr. Sheikha Bint Abdulla Al-Misned, President of the Qatar University and Mr. Abdullah Nasser Al-Ansari, Director of the Department of Public Libraries. This is the 6th donation of books to Qatar University since 1989 and made yearly since 2010. The total number of books donated now reaches around 700. Ambassador Monji emphasized that “It was very timely that the donation takes place in 2012, the 40th anniversary year of Japan-Qatar diplomatic relations. The Embassy of Japan has been enjoying good cooperative relations with Qatar University through such activities as book donations as accepting QU students to Japan under the Japanese government scholarship program and jointly Japanese cultural events in Doha.”

(Ambassdor and Sheikha Al-Minad President of Qatar University)	(Ambassador and Dr. Al-Ansari, Director of Department of Public Library)
World Book Day 'opening speech By the Ambassador'	World Book Day
World Book Day ' with representatives from other embassies at the closing ceremony'	World Book Day ' with local elementary school students participated at the event'

May 9 Joint Press Conference on 2013 Japanese Government Scholarship

On May 9, H.E. Mr. Kenjiro Monji, Ambassador of Japan held a joint press conference with the Supreme Education Council (SEC) to announce Japanese Governments scholarship programs for Qatari nationals for the year 2013. Ambassador Monji briefly explained the outline of the scholarship program to the local press and also expressed his strong hope that those who study in Japan will become bridge of friendship between two countries. Officers from SEC stated that there are 3 Qatari students who are currently studying in Japan under SEC’s scholarship program and they would like to strengthen the ties with the Japanese Embassy in order to see more Qataris study in Japan. For further information regarding the 2013 scholarship program, please visit the following website: （https://www.qa.emb-japan.go.jp/en/scholarship_e.html）

April 20 Empower Youth Conference 2012

ROTA (Reach out to Asia) invited 4 college students and one teacher from Japan to the Empower Youth Conference as special guest. On April 19th, during a courtesy call to Ambassador Monji, he explained Japan-Qatar relations to the participants. He also invited an assistant professor of Qatar University and a staff from Aljazeera broadcast to a lunch meeting in which Japanese participants carefully listened and exchanged their views regarding Qatari diplomacy, society, culture and Middle Eastern affairs in general. At the conference which Ambassador and his wife also attended, the participants organized a workshop in which they discussed youth’s initiative in supporting community after the Great East Japan Earthquake with other participating students.

March 29-30 Japanese Cinema Showcase "Okuribito-Departures"

Ambassador Monji attended the opening screening for Japanese Cinema Showcase which was co-organized by Doha Film Institute(DFI) and Qatar Museums Authority(QMA). Ambasador Monji emphasized in his opening remark the importance of strengthening relations between Japanese and Arab film industries touching upon the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Qatar. This film shocase will be held every last Thursday and Friday of each month and continue till the end of September.

March 22 Anime Qatar Event at VCU

H.E. Ambassador Monji and Mrs. Monji participated in “Anime Qatar Event” held at the Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar. This event was organized by Qatari students, who love Japanese pop culture, and it held various events such as a cosplay (costume-play) show, manga sales, illustrations displays, anime quiz games, etc. In an exciting atmosphere of Japanese fans, Ambassador Monji delivered a speech and appealed that the Embassy of Japan is now planning a variety of Japanese pop culture events as well as Japanese books sales at the upcoming “23rd Doha International Book Fair”, in which Japan will be a guest of honor.

March 15　Lecture of “Japanese Pop Culture” by Mr. Takamasa Sakurai

At the Ambassador’s residence, Mr. Takamasa Sakurai,　a media content producer, and H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji jointly gave a lecture regarding "Japanese Pop Culture" in an interactive manner. Mr. Sakurai has been conducting cultural diplomacy in a total of 87 cities in 20 countries. Japanese language students (from Qatar Eastern Language Center and Qatar International Academy for Security) and students interested in Japanese culture (from Japanese Club in Qatar University) were invited. Both lecturers were truly impressed by the depth of knowledge of the audience on Japanese Pop Culture including Manga and Anime.

March 13 　Ceremony in Commemoration of the Great East Japan Earthquake – toward “Open Reconstruction” –

The Embassy of Japan held a ceremony in commemoration of the Great East Japan Earthquake. This ceremony aimed not only to recall the disaster and its victims, but also to show open reconstruction of Japan as well as to express gratitude for supports from Qatar and around the world. Qatari government officials, diplomatic corps, Japanese living in Qatar, etc. were invited to the Ambassador’s residence. At the start of the ceremony, a footage expressing gratitude for support from all over the world was introduced and attendance offered a moment of silence for the victims of the disaster.

March 11-25　The photo exhibition of Recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake – toward “Open Reconstruction” –

On 11 March, one year after the Great East Japan Earthquake, the Embassy of Japan held the memorial photo exhibition of Recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake – toward “Open Reconstruction” – in the presence of H.E. Dr. Hamad Bin Abdulaziz Al-Kuwari, Minister of Culture, Art, and Heritage. Not only that this photo exhibition conveyed a message that Japan is now recovering from the huge disaster, but it was an occasion to express our gratitude for Qatar that donated 100 million dollar as reconstruction assistance and provided a huge amount of additional LNG and LPG. Drawings by the children in the disaster-stricken areas under the theme of “Thanks to everyone in the world”, “My life in ten years”, “What I want to do” were displayed as well. This memorial photo exhibition impressed reconstruction and hope on the mind of visitors.

February 26-29　Kimono Lecture and Demonstration by Mako Hattori

The Embassy of Japan and the Japan Foundation held “Kimono Lecture & Demonstration” by Ms. Mako Hattori, a classical Japanese dance performer, at the Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, the Museum of Islamic Art, and Al-Bayan Educational Complex. At the Museum of Islamic Art, Ms. Mako introduced traditional Japanese culture to a broad range of guests by giving Kimono lecture and performing classical Japanese dance. When Ms. Mako demonstrated how to dress Kimono, many foreigners admired its process and asked interesting questions about Kimono. Furthermore, Ms. Mako gave a Kimono demonstration at the WOHOM’s (Wives of Ambassador and Heads of Mission) meeting at the residence of Japanese Ambassador.

 

 

February 26-March 1　Chitasi Friendship Association's Member visited Doha

19 Members of Chitasi Friendship Association visited Doha which has friendly relations with Qatar since Aichi-EXPO in 2005. They visited Qatar University, Albayan Grls school as well as Omar Bin Khatab Boys school to introduce Japanese culture such as green tea and kimono.The welcoming reception was hosted by H.E.Ambassador Mr.Monji at his residence. Attendees exchanged their views and emphasized on the imortance of cultural exchange at local level.

February 23 Donation by Ms. Mercedes, the owner of Art Wanson Gallery

At the Ambassador’s residence, Mrs. Mercedes Duerinckx, Founder and CEO of Art Wanson Group handed 60,000 Qatar riyal raised by a sale of a painting donated by the Group for a charity purpose to Mr. Kadowaki, Chairman of the Support Committee for the Celebration of the 40th anniversary of Japan-Qatar Diplomatic Relations. It was a donation to support the cultural exchange events in the anniversary year, one of whose objectives is to express Japan’s gratitude to Qatar for helping Japan after the earthquake.

February 22-23 Taiko Legend by Eitetsu Hayashi

The Embassy of Japan and the Japan Foundation in a full collaboration with KATARA organized "Taiko Legend-Heartbeat from Japan" by Eitetsu Hayashi and Eitetsu FU-UN no kai and Makoto Takei(Bamboo Flute master) at KATARA Drama Theatre. This event was regarded as an opening event for the 40th anniverasry of diplomatic relations which was organized by Japanese side. The performance was the culmination of Mr.Hayashi's 40 year long performance activity and was welcomed by the full audience with long standing ovations.

 

February 10　Bicycle Race "Tour Of Qatar"

Bicycle race "Tour of Qatar" took place in Qatar. For the first time in its history, Bridgestone team from Japan participated the race. H.E.Ambasasdor Mr.Monji encouraged Japanese riders before the race.

 

2月10日　Wheels 'n' Heels

At the MIA park, ROTA(Reach Out to Asia) organized a charity event, 5th Wheels n Heels which encouraged families to spend healthy lifestyle and participants enjoyed sports and a wide range of entertaiment. This event was regarded as one of the QatarJapan2012 projects and Japan was a guest of honor. Students from Japan school in Doha made a Wadaiko performance as well as Yosakoi traditional Japanese dance. The award ceremony of "Tour of Qatar" was also held at the MIA park.

 

February 8-11 Students from 3.11 earthquake devastated region visited Doha

40 students from 3.11 devastated region were invited by the Qatari Government and visited Museum of Islamic Art, Murakami's exhibition "EGO" , Aljazeera headquarter and Ambassador's residence. They also participated Wheels 'n' Heels organized by ROTA(Reach out to Asia) and made a performance expressing their deepest gratitude toward the kind support of Qatar.

February 8 Murakami's Exhibition "EGO"

One of the QatarJapan2012 projects, Murakami”EGO”'s opening event was held at the Riwaq Hall next to the Istamic Museum of Art. H.E.Sheikha AlMayassa and H.E.Dr.AlKuwari Minister of Culture, Art and Heritages attended the ceremony as well as artist, art-collectores and critics from all over the world gatherd at the "EGO". The exhibition is being held during February 9-June 24th.

 

February 8-11 3rd Food Festival

The 3rd Doha food festival was held by the Qatar Tourism Authority at the outside of the area of the exhibition centre.This year's theme is ”Taste and Fun”and more than 70 restaurants and hotels exhibited their stands. To celebrate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations, the Embassy's stand was set up and carried out Mochi-making performance in full collaboration with Taisei Cooperation and Takenaka Cooperation. The Embassy also served Japanese sweet jelly and Maki-sushi, at the same time Midori made sushi making performance which was welcomed by the full crowds.

 

February 7-11 2012 Qatar Open (Table Tennis)

Japanese top players joined 2012 Qatar Open (table tennis). Four Japanese singles players who have been selected to play in London Olympics, namely Ms. Kasumi Ishikawa, Ms. Ai Fukuhara, Mr. Zyun Mizutani., Mr. Seiya Kishikawa, participated in this annual table tennis tournament. Ms. Kasumi Ishikawa won the first place in U-21 female singles. On 12 February, the Ambassador of Japan invited the Japanese table tennis team to his residence. Japanese players and coaches exchanged opinions regarding sports diplomacy with board members of the Japanese society in Qatar.

January 26-February 2　U-23 Japanese national football team’s training camp in Qatar

In preparation for a match against Syria in the final qualifier for the London Olympics, U-23 Japanese national football team held a training camp in Qatar. On this occasion, Japanese team played practice matches with U-23 Qatari national football team (January 28) and U-23 Iraqi national football team (January 31). H. E. Ambassador Mr. Monji and his wife Mrs. Monji visited Aspire Sports Academy, where Japanese team was training, to encourage young Japanese players trying to qualify for the London Olympics.

 

January 19　Practice match between Japanese and Qatari handball national teams

In preparation for 15th Asian Championships (Handball Men) which will be held at Saudi Arabia from January 26 to February 5, Japanese handball national team visited Qatar for the practice match with Qatari national team. Japanese national team won the game by 32 – 31. H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji cheered for Japanese team and wished Japanese team’s success on 15th Asian Championships.

 

January 13-21 12th Asian Shooting Championships

Many Japanese shooting players (Rifle, Pistol, Shotgun) participated in “12th Asian Shooting Championships” held at the Lusail Shooting Complex in Doha. This championship was a final qualification of the London Olympics for Japanese shooting players. Mr. Midori Yajima, who won the first place in 50m Rifle Prone, and Mrs. Yukie Nakayama, who won the third place in Trap 75 Targets, were qualified for the London Olympics. H.E. Ambassador Mr. Monji and his wife Mrs. Monji cheered for Japanese players.

 

January 8-17　Al Kass International Cup U-17 (Football)

Kashima Antlers, Japanese professional football team, participated in “Al Kass International Cup U-17” (Football) held at Doha and won the 4th place in this cup. World-famous 10 football teams, namely Kashima Antlers (Japan), Juventus (Italy), PSG (France), Ajax (Holland), FC Barcelona (Spain), Vasco da Gama (Brazil), Aspire International (Qatar), Aspire Qatar (Qatar), Al Ahly (Egypt), Al Jazira (UAE), took part in this cup. Kashima Antlers defeated Juventus at the preliminary tournament. Eventually, Kashima Antlers lost in the third-place match against Ajax (1- 0).