Phnom Penh: The Embassy of Japan, in collaboration with the Cambodia-Japan Cooperation Center (CJCC) and the Japan Foundation, Phnom Penh Liaison Office, is going to organize the 14th Japan-Cambodia Kizuna Festival, one of the biggest Japan-Cambodia cultural events, from 13 to 16 February 2025 at CJCC.
Ambassador UENO Atsushi spoke at the Japan-Cambodia Kizuna Festival 2025 Opening Ceremony, stating that during the next three days, a variety of cultural events will take place. The Japan Foundation has invited “Shochiku Nihonbuyo Lab,” a traditional Japanese dance ensemble, to perform some of their signature dances this evening, as well as a joint performance with Cambodian dancers.
In addition, the festival will feature a range of performances, Japanese language-related events, ‘Study in Japan’ information sessions, and much more. On this occasion, there will also be a unique workshop in which chef IZAWA from my official house, who is well-known among Cambodian, Japanese, and international guests, will teach participants how to prepare traditional Japanese sweets. I hope you can participate in it.
“I should highlight that this year’s Expo 2025 in Osaka, Kansai, Japan, will be held in Osaka from April 13th to October 13th. The Cambodia Pavilion will be there, and hopefully visitors from all over the world will see it, be charmed by Cambodia’s charms, and then visit Cambodia. I hope some of you here today may have the opportunity to visit this Expo.” Ambassador speech.
He added, “Last but not least, I’d want to wish everyone here today good health and happiness, as well as the continued development of Japan’s friendly connection with Cambodia.”
Her Excellency Monimakara Pen, Secretary of State for Culture and Fine Arts, stated that it is a great privilege and honor to once again represent Her Excellency Dr. Phoeurng Sackona, Minister of Culture and Fine Arts of our Kingdom of Cambodia, at the opening ceremony of the “Japan-Cambodia Kizuna Festival 2025.”
She notes that this annual festival demonstrates Cambodia and Japan’s long and enduring friendship. The two nations have a relationship based on mutual respect, trust, and a deep appreciation for each other’s cultures. Cultural linkages have deepened over time, resulting in increased understanding and significant partnerships in a variety of disciplines.
“Cultural interaction is important for bringing people together, fostering understanding, and recognizing difference. It not only deepens our common admiration for traditions, but it also opens the door to partnership in trade, tourism, education, and other fields. By coming together to celebrate our cultural history, we strengthen the links of friendship that link our two countries.” Her Excellency Monimakara Pen explained.
His Excellency Samedy Sivathana, Secretary of State, Minister of Education, Youth, and Sport, and on behalf of Doctor HANG Chuon Naron, Deputy Prime Minister, express their appreciation for the Japan-Cambodia Kizuna Festival, which contributes significantly to Cambodia’s economic development vision and good friendship.
“This event plays a pivotal role in strengthening the relationship between Japan and Cambodia and promoting exchanges among Japanese and Cambodian people in the field of culture and education in particular.” Samedy Sivathana’s address.
He went on: “I would like to express my deep gratitude and extend my sincere thanks to the event organizers for organizing such a magnificent annual event to cherish our unwavering people-to-people friendship and to celebrate together the Japan-Cambodia KIZUNA Festival 2025 under a precious theme of Harmony of Diversity.”
This year’s sponsors include Samurai C International (Cambodia) Ltd, MK Co., Ltd., SATHAPANA Bank Plc, VIT Co., Ltd., Tiger Balm Cambodia, TECNO MOBILE LTD, Global Network Project to Promote Study in Japan (ASEAN), Okayama University, STARTS (CAMBODIA) CORPORATION, Gunze Sports (Cambodia) CO, LTD, and J Trust Royal Bank Plc. Panasonic Cambodia (a branch of Panasonic Asia Pacific Pte Ltd.), Active People’s Microfinance Institution Plc.
The Japan-Cambodia Kizuna Festival is an annual event organised since 2012 to display Japanese and Cambodian culture and promote further exchanges between the two nations’ peoples. The organisers believe that these cultural events bring participants closer to Japan and enhance their awareness of both Japanese and Cambodian culture.
Photo by: Supplied
