Embassy of Japan in Estonia held the Japan Self-Defense Forces Day Reception
2026/7/9
On July 9, the Embassy of Japan in Estonia held the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) reception to commemorate the 72nd anniversary in the garden of Ambassador's residence.
The reception was attended by many distinguished guests, including First Vice-Chairman of the Parliament (Riigikogu), Mr. Toomas Kivimägi, Deputy Commander of the Estonian Defence Forces, Maj. Gen. Viktor Kalnitski, and representatives from the Estonian Government, the Estonian Defence Force, NATO, diplomatic corps and defence attachés.
In his opening speech, Ambassador NAKAMURA Koichiro noted that, based on the shared recognition that the security of Europe and the Indo-Pacific is inseparable, cooperation between Japan and Estonia, as well as between Japan and NATO, has been steadily advancing in the fields of security and defense, and support for Ukraine. The Ambassador also outlined Japan's efforts to strengthen its national defense in response to the evolving security environment and emphasized Japan's continued commitment to maintaining and reinforcing a free and open international order based on the rule of law.
As a highlight of the reception, a traditional Kagami-biraki (sake barrel breaking ceremony) was held, wishing for the good fortune and prosperity of Japan, Estonia, and all guests present.
Alongside Japanese cuisine prepared by the Embassy's chef, a variety of Japanese beverages including sake, shochu, umeshu (plum wine), Japanese beer and whisky were served, fostering a convivial atmosphere for friendly exchange.
Booths were set up by Mitsubishi Electric and Panasonic, and IT Cosmos, showcasing Japan's defense equipment and technology.
The reception was attended by many distinguished guests, including First Vice-Chairman of the Parliament (Riigikogu), Mr. Toomas Kivimägi, Deputy Commander of the Estonian Defence Forces, Maj. Gen. Viktor Kalnitski, and representatives from the Estonian Government, the Estonian Defence Force, NATO, diplomatic corps and defence attachés.
In his opening speech, Ambassador NAKAMURA Koichiro noted that, based on the shared recognition that the security of Europe and the Indo-Pacific is inseparable, cooperation between Japan and Estonia, as well as between Japan and NATO, has been steadily advancing in the fields of security and defense, and support for Ukraine. The Ambassador also outlined Japan's efforts to strengthen its national defense in response to the evolving security environment and emphasized Japan's continued commitment to maintaining and reinforcing a free and open international order based on the rule of law.
As a highlight of the reception, a traditional Kagami-biraki (sake barrel breaking ceremony) was held, wishing for the good fortune and prosperity of Japan, Estonia, and all guests present.
Alongside Japanese cuisine prepared by the Embassy's chef, a variety of Japanese beverages including sake, shochu, umeshu (plum wine), Japanese beer and whisky were served, fostering a convivial atmosphere for friendly exchange.
Booths were set up by Mitsubishi Electric and Panasonic, and IT Cosmos, showcasing Japan's defense equipment and technology.