天皇誕生日祝賀レセプションにおける熊澤大使挨拶
Proslov velvyslance Japonska v ČR Hiedaki Kumazawa
na recepci pořádané na počest narození japonského císaře

[7th Dec. 2006]

It is my great pleasure to celebrate the birthday of His Majesty Emperor Akihito together with our guests. In September 2006, joyous news came from the Imperial family - the birth of the first grandson of His Majesty; His Imperial Highness Prince Hisahito. In welcoming the new Prince, I would like to wish His Majesty good health and the further prosperity of the Imperial family.

The Czech Republic and Japan already enjoy very close ties, but I am particularly happy to observe that recently these ties have become even stronger. The Government of Japan will continue to further promote these friendly relations.

Our ties cover many areas. In economic terms you may be interested to learn that the number of Japanese companies operating in this country now stands at 180, which is three times as many as five years ago. I am delighted to see so many Japanese companies contributing to the development of the Czech economy. At the same time, I greatly appreciate the efforts of the Czech Government to improve the investment climate and to continue offering positive assistance to foreign companies.

In addition to these strong business ties, Japanese tourism in the Czech Republic is also growing. Last year the number of Japanese tourists visiting this country exceeded 160,000 people.

In the field of culture, our two nations are very successful at bridging the geographical distance between us. Czech music and culture are highly appreciated in Japan and Japanese traditional and modern culture is gaining popularity here.

I am happy to mention that the Japanese writer Haruki Murakami was awarded the renowned Czech literature prize, namely the Franz Kafka Prize.

Equally happily I would also like to highlight the fact that His Majesty the Emperor conferred the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette on Mrs. Věnceslava Hrdličková, who has played a leading role in introducing Japanese culture to the Czech Republic.

The close relationship that we now enjoy is largely founded on the achievements of such devoted and enthusiastic individuals.

Lastly, I would like to draw your attention to the fact that in 2007 we will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations between the Czech Republic and Japan. This is a great opportunity for us all to further contribute to the enhancement of the precious friendship between our two countries.

It is my sincere hope that the relationship between the Czech Republic and Japan will flourish further.