Dr M graces Japanese Emperor’s birthday do
KUALA LUMPUR: The Japanese Emperor’s 85th birthday reception here turned “high profile” with Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad making a personal appearance.
The Prime Minister, who was accompanied by his wife Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali, was greeted by Japanese Ambassador Dr Makio Miyagawa at his residence in Jalan Langgak Golf here.
This was followed by a toast proposed to Japan by Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng, who was the minister assigned by the government.
Dr Miyagawa paid tribute to Dr Mahathir for his efforts to improve ties between both nations and recalled the conferment of Japan’s highest decoration the “Grand Cordon of the Order of the Paulownia Flowers” upon the PM by Emperor Akihito in Tokyo on Nov 6.
“This is an expression of the profound appreciation of our entire nation to Tun’s immense contribution for many years to the development, advancement and strengthening of capacity among Asians.
“I still remember that Tun expressed in a World Economic Forum conference years ago that without Japan, there would be no role model for East Asia.
“His Majesty’s birthday reception this year is special as His Majesty has solemnly announced to hand over the throne to His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince at the end of April next year.
“On May 1, our nation (Japan) will enter into a new reign,” he said in his address.
Dr Miyagawa said trade links and business partnerships between both countries were expanding, adding that the new administration in Malaysia had started a new policy platform for fairness, transparency and good governance.