Reception Celebrating His Majesty the Emperor’s Birthday

2026/2/25
On 20 February, Ambassador NAKAMURA Koichiro and Madame NAKAMURA hosted a reception to celebrate His Majesty the Emperor’s Birthday. The event was attended by approximately 300 guests, including government officials such as Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mr. Margus Tsahkna and Minister of Economic Affairs and Environment, H.E. Mr. Andres Sutt; members of the Parliament including MP Mr. Raimond Kaljulaid, Chairperson of the Estonia-Japan Parliamentary Friendship League; military representatives; members of the diplomatic corps; individuals involved in Estonia-Japan exchange; and representatives from academia, culture, arts, sports, media, and business active in Estonia.


The reception commenced with the singing of the national anthems of both countries, performed by Vanalinna Muusikamaja Tütarlastekoor, one of Estonia’s most highly acclaimed girls’ choirs both domestically and internationally. Following the anthems, Ambassador Nakamura delivered a greeting. In his speech, the Ambassador extended his congratulations to His Majesty the Emperor on the occasion of His Majesty’s 66th birthday, introduced the progress made over the past year in various fields of cooperation between Japan and Estonia, and expressed his commitment to continue striving for the further development of bilateral relations in many areas.

          

Subsequently, Foreign Minister Tsahkna offered congratulatory remarks on the occasion of the Emperor’s Birthday and expressed his wishes for the continued development of friendship between the two countries. This was followed by a toast from Chairman Kaljulaid, celebrating the future growth of the bilateral relationship. The reception also featured a performance by Vanalinna Muusikamaja Tütarlastekoor, who sang the famous Japanese song “Furusato” (My Hometown).

         

At this reception, Japanese-related companies active locally — including Fukuoka Style (Ramen Taro), Japan Lifestyle (Rise & Zen), Makita, Lexus, ANA, and JAL — exhibited booths showcasing their products and services.

         

        

        
 
The guests were treated to Japanese cuisine prepared by Mr. KAWANO Kodai, the chef of the embassy, and enjoyed Japanese alcoholic beverages such as sake, shochu, plum wine, and whiskey. The reception provided an opportunity to learn about Japan from multiple angles and experience its charms.