On Wednesday, October 2, Dr. Ritter Diaz, Representative Director of JAPOLAC, attended the renowned photographic exhibition “Japan Through Diplomats’ Eyes,” held at Roppongi Hills in Tokyo.

The event commenced with opening remarks from Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado and His Excellency Rachad Bouhlal, Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco and Chairperson of the exhibition. Following these greetings, awards were presented to the most distinguished photographs across various categories.

Among the awardees was His Excellency Harold Burgos, Ambassador of the Republic of Honduras, who received the Jury’s Mention award—a prestigious recognition granted by the jury to a participant whose photograph stood out for its originality and exceptional impact.

Now in its 27th year, the “Japan Through Diplomats’ Eyes” exhibition was held under the theme “inspiring Japan” and counted on the participation of 62 diplomats and their families from 42 countries. The exhibition is carried out under the generous patronage of HIH Princess Takamado as Honorary President.

This annual event has evolved into a cherished tradition and a meaningful platform for cultural exchange, with diplomats accredited to Japan enthusiastically participating each year. Through their unique photographic perspectives, they share their insights on Japan, offering Japanese audiences a captivating, international lens on their own culture.

JAPOLAC extends heartfelt congratulations to Ambassador Burgos for this high distinction, which serves to further strengthen the cultural connections between Honduras and Japan.

 

The Japan Association for the Promotion of Latin America and the Caribbean (JAPOLAC) recently organized an online meeting between the Research Center for Production of Agriculture in Controlled Environment (CIPAC) and Chiba University to explore CIPAC’s advancements and discuss potential collaboration.

Established in Panama in 2021 as an Association of Public Interest, CIPAC promotes research, training, and production in controlled environment agriculture (CEA) through public-private partnerships. CIPAC collaborates with national research, educational, and innovation centers across Panama, Latin America, and the Caribbean to drive agricultural innovation. It also engages with international partners to expand CEA technologies, particularly in regions facing climate-related challenges, enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability.

The meeting included participation of Mr. David Proenza, a CIPAC Consultant, who provided an overview of the organization’s initiatives and emphasized its commitment to building global academic and research connections. Representing Chiba University, Dr. Michiko Takagaki, a professor and former Director of the Center for Environment, Health, and Field Sciences, expressed appreciation for the insights into CIPAC’s progress, highlighting the value of collaborative research in advancing CEA technology.

CIPAC originated from academic collaborations between Chiba University and Panamanian universities, including the University of Panama and the Technological University of Panama, laying the groundwork for ongoing international cooperation in CEA.

Moderated by Dr. Ritter Díaz, Representative Director of JAPOLAC, the meeting underscored JAPOLAC’s role in fostering partnerships to promote CEA. JAPOLAC actively supports the adoption of innovative agricultural technologies in Latin America and the Caribbean, aiming to improve productivity, food security, and farmers’ livelihoods. Initiatives like these strengthen ties between Japan and Latin American and Caribbean countries, promoting sustainable solutions and encouraging agricultural resilience in response to climate change.

From September 21 to September 29, 2024, Dr. Ritter Diaz, the Representative Director of JAPOLAC, contributed as a guest lecturer to the International Career Seminar (ICS) at Utsunomiya University. The ICS program is dedicated to equipping students with essential global perspectives and practical knowledge necessary for thriving in international careers. With a strong focus on “Globalization” and “Glocalization,” the seminar underscores the significance of addressing global challenges within local contexts.

Dr. Diaz’s lecture, titled “Advising Foreign Exporters about the Japanese Market,” offered invaluable insights to students from Utsunomiya University, the University of Peradeniya (Sri Lanka), and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS, Malaysia). His presentation provided practical strategies and useful knowledge aimed at preparing students for successful careers in international business. This interactive session also facilitated understanding of the unique aspects of the Japanese market, enhancing students’ readiness for real-world applications.

A distinguishing feature of the ICS is the use of English as the medium of instruction, allowing students to actively participate in cross-cultural exchanges with international professors, lecturers, and peers. Under Dr. Diaz’s mentorship, students concluded the seminar with a hands-on project, presenting two products for potential introduction to the Japanese market. This experience provided them with valuable insights into the complexities and dynamics of international trade.

Dr. Diaz’s lecture was designed to guide students towards future roles in the international divisions of trading companies, government trade offices, and international trade organizations, as well as to prepare them for potential careers as independent consultants advising foreign companies on entering the Japanese market.

Through Dr. Diaz’s participation, JAPOLAC exemplifies its commitment to advancing practical education that empowers future professionals with the skills necessary to excel in a globalized world. This collaboration between JAPOLAC and Utsunomiya University underscores the importance of international education and fosters the development of globally-minded professionals poised to thrive in an interconnected world.

Dr. Ritter Diaz, Representative Director of JAPOLAC, and his wife, Mrs. Ayana Diaz Hatada, hosted a farewell dinner in honor of His Excellency Alexander Salas Araya, Ambassador of Costa Rica to Japan. The dinner celebrated his friendship and unwavering support for JAPOLAC’s initiatives.

Since JAPOLAC’s founding in 2020, Ambassador Salas has demonstrated steadfast commitment to the association’s mission of disseminating the activities of Latin American and Caribbean embassies in Japan, helping to promote the region’s visibility.

Ambassador Salas has consistently supported JAPOLAC’s cultural initiatives, underscoring his dedication to fostering meaningful connections. Additionally, he has played a pivotal role in strengthening ties between JAPOLAC and the Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promotion Agency (PROCOMER), thereby facilitating the dissemination of Costa Rica’s business initiatives within the Japanese market.

The event counted on the distinguished presence of the Apostolic Nuncio to Japan, officials from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Japan International Cooperation Agency, and former Japanese ambassadors to Costa Rica and the Latin American and Caribbean region, among other esteemed guests.

The evening underscored JAPOLAC’s profound gratitude to Ambassador Salas for his invaluable contributions to strengthening the ties between Costa Rica, Japan, and the broader Latin American and Caribbean region.

At the invitation of the Embassy of El Salvador, Dr. Ritter Diaz, Director Representative of JAPOLAC, attended the preview of the SUPERCYCLES exhibition, showcasing the works of Berlin-based Salvadoran artist Fredy Solan. This exceptional exhibition, held from September 25 to September 27 at the Embassy of El Salvador, attracted political and cultural personalities as well as members of the diplomatic corps.

Fredy Solan, a celebrated Salvadoran artist, is known for his exploration of contemporary art through innovative forms of representation and abstraction. Solan utilizes a unique blend of print, spray, and hand brush techniques on canvas, delving into the concept of intense economic growth cycles and their impact on global commodity demand over the last 150 years.

The SUPERCYCLES exhibition offered guests an immersive experience, where art and economic converged, presenting a philosophical dialogue through thought-provoking works. In addition, attendees enjoyed a captivating photo exhibition showcasing El Salvador’s dynamic urban landscapes and breathtaking natural scenery, providing a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.