Omani among three honoured by Japan for promoting bilateral ties

Muscat: One Omani and two Japanese nationals were awarded the prestigious Japanese Ambassador’s Commendation in Muscat on Sunday.
The award was given to the recipients for promoting bilateral ties and understanding between the Sultanate and Japan.
“I am very happy to present the Ambassador’s Commendation to the Omani and Japanese nationals in recognition of their great contribution to the enhancement of friendship bonds and mutual understanding between Japan and the Sultanate of Oman,” said Mitsugu Saito, Ambassador of Japan to the Sultanate of Oman.
“The Ambassador’s Commendation aims to acknowledge the efforts made by both Omanis and the Japanese who played significant roles in order to enhance the bilateral relations between Japan and Oman,” the ambassador added.
The awards were given to Dr. Suad Al Mudhaffar, founder and former Principal of Azzan bin Qais International School; Dr. Fukuju Yamamoto, Professor at Tottori University’s Arid Land Research Centre; and Tomoo Shoji, freelance consultant and environment specialist.
The Commendation is awarded to individuals and groups in recognition of their contribution to the promotion of friendship between Japan and other
countries.
The commendation also aims to promote the understanding of the activities of the recipients to the general public in Japan.
“When I first came to Oman 37 years ago, I found Oman and Japan had similarities, in terms of both countries’ rich culture and traditions. At the time, most Omani and Japanese people knew little about each other’s country apart from one being an oil producer, and the other having a strong economy. It was back then that I saw an opportunity to build a bridge to bring people of both countries together,” said Al Mudhaffar.
“I can surely say that my dream to build a stronger bridge between the Oman and Japan relationship has been supported by many people in the country whom I would like to thank for their support these past years,” she added.