Courtesy Visit to the Ambassador of Colombia
Dr. Ritter Diaz, Representative Director of the Japan Association for the Promotion of Latin America and the Caribbean (JAPOLAC), paid a courtesy visit to His Excellency Mr. Gustavo Makanaky, the newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Colombia to Japan.
During the meeting, Dr. Diaz provided His Excellency with an overview of JAPOLAC’s mission and ongoing activities, underscoring the Association’s commitment to fostering practical and mutually beneficial exchanges between Japan and the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean.
In particular, Dr. Diaz expressed JAPOLAC’s full willingness to collaborate with the Embassy of Colombia, and mentioned an initiative promoted jointly with Kura Sushi to feature Latin American and Caribbean cuisine at the Kura Sushi Pavilion during Expo Osaka 2025. As part of this effort, the Colombian dish Creole Potatoes with Hogao Sauce is being offered to visitors, showcasing a well-known dish of the country.
Furthermore, Dr. Diaz reiterated his support for Ambassador Makanaky’s diplomatic mission, emphasizing that JAPOLAC serves as an additional platform to promote the activities of the Embassy of Colombia in Japan and to provide the Embassy with valuable information relevant to its work.
Ambassador Makanaky warmly welcomed the visit and expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to learn more about JAPOLAC and its role in strengthening ties between Japan and the Latin American and Caribbean region. He shared his perspectives on the importance of Colombia-Japan diplomatic relations, reaffirming his commitment to deepening the long-standing friendship and cooperation between the two countries across various areas of mutual interest.
With this visit, JAPOLAC reaffirms its dedication to supporting the efforts of Latin American and Caribbean embassies accredited in Japan, particularly in promoting greater awareness of the region’s rich cultural heritage and contributions to Japanese society.
Dr. Diaz was accompanied by senior JAPOLAC directors: Mr. Ajoy Sinha Roy, Mr. Neil Butler, and Mr. Fredy Armijos, who leads the Association’s business promotion initiatives.