New Japanese envoy to forge closer ties with PH

Mabuhay!

I am KOSHIKAWA Kazuhiko, Ambassador-designate of Japan to the Philippines. As I start my tenure here, I am excited to work with the people of PH in galvanizing the JP-PH relations. I will make every possible effort in keeping our countries’ ties closer than ever. pic.twitter.com/iH7EfDTEh2

— Ambassador of Japan in the Philippines (@AmbJPNinPH) November 27, 2020

MANILA – Japan’s new Ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko has finally arrived in the country, with a vow to further boost Manila and Tokyo’s friendship.

The Japanese Embassy in Manila on Friday said Ambassador-designate Koshikawa arrived on Thursday.

“As my diplomatic mission here in the Philippines begins, I shall exert every possible effort to further galvanize the foundations that make our bilateral ties special. I look forward to working with the people of the Philippines in realizing my commitments,” the envoy said in a statement.

Koshikawa succeeded former Japanese Ambassador to Manila Koji Haneda who ended his tour of duty and officially left the country last week.

Upon his arrival, Koshikawa expressed his firm commitment to building on the foundations of the long-standing partnership between Japan and the Philippines.

“It is my great honor and privilege to be appointed Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines. The relationship between our two countries is a shining example of cooperation and mutual understanding that our forebears have nurtured,” he said.

“I am delighted to have this opportunity to scale new heights of the bilateral relations and forge an even closer friendship,” he added.

In the last few years, Koshikawa said Manila and Tokyo have entered into its “golden age” of strategic partnership. “This incredible feat in our relations is one that encompasses a dynamic narrative of growth and trust.”

Koshikawa previously served as the executive senior vice president of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

He was also the Ambassador of Japan to Spain and Angola, in 2014-2016 and 2008-2011, respectively.