Greeting from Ambassador Hisajima

I arrived in Doha and assumed the post on November 24, 2024, succeeding Ambassador Satoshi Maeda. I have served in overseas missions in Southeast Asia, Europe, Africa and North America, and this is my first posting to the Middle East.
 
Japan and Qatar have enjoyed a solid and enduring relationship for more than 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, including reconstruction support during the Great East Japan Earthquake. Such relations between the two countries are expected to be strengthened in a wider range of areas. Examples include the launch of direct flights between Tokyo and Doha by Japan Airlines in March this year, and the planned exhibition of the Qatar Pavilion at the Osaka-Kansai Expo. It is a great honor for me to be appointed Ambassador to Qatar at such a juncture. 
 
Amid rising global tensions, especially in the Middle East region, Qatar has rapidly expanded its presence and attracted attention not only in the Middle East but also around the world, through its mediation diplomacy, humanitarian assistance and other efforts. 
 
Japan strongly urges all parties to take all measures to prevent civilian casualties and avoid further escalation. I believe it is important to continue to exchange views on the importance of a free and open international order based on the rule of law in the Indo-Pacific, the situation in the Middle East, including Gaza and Afghanistan, and the situation in East Asia, and to further deepen cooperation between Japan and Qatar in order to stabilize the regions and the international community.
 
I will do my utmost to foster stronger Japan-Qatar relations by listening to views and opinions from various stakeholders, including those involved in bilateral affairs and Japanese expatriates in Qatar.