Ambassador Sumi visited Odesa (May 11-12)
12/5/2017
On May 11-12 Ambassador Sumi and his wife visited Odesa where they participated in the Sakura Planting Ceremony, paid a visit to I. I. Mechnykov National University of Odesa and held a meeting with the Head of Odesa Regional State Administration Maksym Stepanov. Please find below the detailed information on the visit.
1. Sakura Planting Ceremony
With participants of the Ceremony
On May 11 the Sakura Planting Ceremony was held in Peremohy Park in Odesa. It was attended by the Deputy Mayor Pavlo Vugelman who expressed his sincere gratitude for the sakura trees provided by Japan. He also conveyed expectations that this ceremony would contribute to further development of friendly relations between the two countries, as well as Yokohama and Odesa which are sister cities. In turn, Ambassador Sumi said he was happy to participate in this event organized in the framework of the Year of Japan in Ukraine and celebrating the 25th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between Japan and Ukraine. He expressed hopes that local citizens will be reminded of friendly relations with Japan every time they see the sakura trees.
2. Meeting with the students of I.I. Mechnykov National University of Odesa
With the Rector of I.I. Mechnykov National University of Odesa Igor Koval
With students learning Japanese
On May 12 Ambassador Sumi and his wife visited I.I. Mechnykov National University of Odesa in order to exchange views with the Rector Igor Koval and meet the students who are learning Japanese. During the meeting Igor Koval explained briefly about the University and expressed eagerness to cooperate with Japanese education facilities which are very strong in science and technology. Furthermore, students studying Japanese showed their high motivation and interest in Japan, mainly Japanese subcultures, such as anime and manga.
3. Meeting with the Head of Odesa Regional State Administration Maksym Stepanov
After the meeting with the Head of Odesa Regiona State Administration Maksym Stepanov (L)
On May 12 Ambassador Sumi and his wife a paid courtesy visit and exchanged views with the Head of Odesa Regional State Administration Maksym Stepanov, who took office in January this year.
Maksym Stepanov welcomed the guests and conveyed readiness to deepen relations with Japan in different areas, such as humanitarian assistance and investment. In turn, Ambassador Sumi said that since this year was declared as the Year of Japan in Ukraine, various cultural projects may be considered in addition to the fields mentioned, and the Governor’s support would be highly appreciated when it comes to their implementation.
Maksym Stepanov welcomed the guests and conveyed readiness to deepen relations with Japan in different areas, such as humanitarian assistance and investment. In turn, Ambassador Sumi said that since this year was declared as the Year of Japan in Ukraine, various cultural projects may be considered in addition to the fields mentioned, and the Governor’s support would be highly appreciated when it comes to their implementation.