Ambassador SHIMOKAWA Makita

Ambassador SHIMOKAWA Makita

My name is SHIMOKAWA Makita, I assumed my duties as the Ambassador of Japan to France on December 14, 2022.

Currently, Japan, like the entire international community, faces numerous political, security, and economic challenges. In the midst of this dynamic international environment, I take on my responsibilities in France, a country of utmost importance to Japan, with a profound sense of duty. In this context, I aim to fulfill my mission while keeping in mind the following three major objectives.

Firstly, to strengthen our cooperation with France, an exceptional partner for our country. In 2023, Japan presided over the G7 and hold a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. Close cooperation with France is therefore essential to successfully fulfill these important roles and build a peaceful and prosperous international community based on the rule of law. I will strive to promote continuous progress in this regard.

Secondly, I will work towards promoting closer economic relations between Japan and France, particularly in terms of trade and investments. I will also do my utmost to present and enhance awareness of Japan’s strengths and attractions in various fields, including science and technology, arts and culture, sports, and Japanese lifestyle such as gastronomy.

Paris will host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2024. In Japan, the Expo Osaka, Kansai is scheduled for 2025. Taking advantage of the opportunities presented by these major events, we will develop exchanges between our two countries and strengthen communication about the attractions of Japan.

Furthermore, another important task of the embassy is to ensure the safety and security of Japanese nationals living or present in this part of the world. We will, therefore, make efforts to provide services and information, including consular assistance, to enable those contributing to the good relations between Japan and France to do so with peace of mind. Through these actions, we will work towards the development of personal exchanges, especially in the areas of tourism and overseas studies.

We rely on your cooperation, understanding, and advice to work together to further develop Franco-Japanese relations.

SHIMOKAWA Makita Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Japan to France