KINGSTON, Jamaica — The celebration of His Emperor Majesty Naruhito’s 63rd birthday brought together a stacked list of dignitaries to the St Andrew abode of Japanese ambassador Yasuhiro Atsumi on Wednesday.

Among the attendees were Minister of Foreign Affairs Kamina Johnson- Smith, Minister of Education Fayval Williams, Minister of National Security and Deputy Prime Minister Horace Chang and ambassadors of various countries.

The event allowed the opportunity for Atsumi to divulge future plans between the two countries as they celebrate 59 years of diplomacy, that commenced in 1964.

In delivering his speech ambassador Atsumi described his appointment as ambassador of Japan as “destiny” and “fate” as previously he was employed at the International Monetary Fund tasked with overseeing Jamaica.

Atsumi, who officially assumed duty as the Japanese ambassador on January 13, likened relations between Japan and Jamaica to that of a bamboo which is “growing fast” and strong.

“Bamboo is a lucky sign, it brings good fortune, it grows up fast and rapidly and is very flexible and strong against the high wind. I sincerely hope and wish that the JJ partnership be like a bamboo, growing fast and being strong,” the Japanese ambassador told a receptive audience.

Minister of Foreign affairs and Foreign Trade, Johnson-Smith also stressed the importance of the” dynamic” and “active” Jamaica-Japan relations and reassured Jamaica’s commitment to the “special” relationship.

“Please be assured of the government of Jamaica’s inspired commitment to ensuring that it [Jamaica-Japan relations] becomes even stronger under your [Yasuhiro Atsumi] tenure,” Johnson-Smith told Atsumi.

Johnson-Smith concluded with a toast to Emperor Naruhito and wished continued success to him and the people of Japan as she reveled in the company and culture of her hosts.