RIYADH: The Embassy of Japan in Saudi Arabia held a reception in Riyadh on Feb. 10 to mark the 66th birthday of Japan’s emperor, with senior Saudi officials and members of the diplomatic corps in attendance.

The event, hosted by Japanese Ambassador Yasunari Morino at his residence, was attended by Dr. Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al-Sudairy, deputy governor of the Riyadh region, who represented the Saudi government. Diplomats and other dignitaries were also present.

During the reception, Morino extended greetings ahead of Ramadan and congratulated Saudi Arabia on the occasion of Founding Day.

The ambassador referred to bilateral relations between Japan and Saudi Arabia, highlighting 2025 as marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties. He also noted Japan’s hosting of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, describing the event as a platform for cultural and economic exchange.

Morino emphasized the participation of Saudi officials and the Saudi Pavilion at the Expo, and said Japan was prepared to share its experience in the lead-up to Expo 2030 Riyadh.

Morino also pointed to cultural exchanges between the two countries, including a Japan Festival organized by the embassy last year. Looking ahead, he mentioned the upcoming Asian Games and Asian Para Games scheduled to take place in Nagoya, Aichi, later this year, expressing hope that the events would contribute to regional engagement.

The ambassador further addressed economic cooperation, citing the growing presence of Japanese companies in the Kingdom and the expansion of collaboration beyond the energy sector. He said the embassy would continue to support business and investment links between the two countries.

The reception featured cultural and sports elements, including a judo demonstration by Saudi youths trained by Japanese coaches. Japanese companies also displayed products and technologies related to sports, health and food.