23/12/2012 Ambassador Fatimie attends reception at Imperial Palace in honor of the birthday of H.M. the Emperor Day

December 23, 2012: Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie had the distinct honor of attending a special reception at the Imperial Palace to celebrate the birthday of H.M. the Emperor of Japan.

Having the most fortunate opportunity to speak both with H.M. the Emperor and H.M. the Empress, Ambassador Fatimie firstly expressed, on behalf of H.E. President Hamid Karzai and the Government and people of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, most cordial congratulations on this celebratory occasion. Furthermore, Ambassador Fatimie offered deepest gratitude for the praiseworthy, selfless cooperation extended by the Government and people of Japan to Afghanistan’s peace and development, hailing the personal role of Their Majesties within. H.M. the Emperor graciously responded with words of encouragement for H.E. President Karzai and Afghanistan.

Ambassador Fatimie was fortunate to also meet with a number of Their Excellencies the Ambassadors on this occasion.

Original Post: http://www.afghanembassyjp.com/en/embassy/?pn=861

28/11/2012 Ambassador Fatimie attends Nagatacho Forum session

November 28, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie attended alongside his colleagues, Their Excellencies the Ambassadors of some 30 countries, a session organized by Nagatacho Forum.

Mr. Dan Harada, the head of Nagatacho Forum, spoke on the current political situation in Japan, paying specific attention to the upcoming general election. As the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan places the highest level of importance on its relations with Japan, Ambassador Fatimie and the Embassy in Tokyo follow closely the current campaign. Ambassador Fatimie graciously thanked Mr. Harada for the insight shared.

(photo: Mr. Dan Harada, circa September 2012)

22/11/2012 Ambassador Fatimie meets with Hon. Vice-President Komura of the Liberal Democratic Party

November 22, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie met with Hon. Vice-President Masahiko Komura of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) at the latter’s office.

To open, Ambassador Fatimie firstly expressed appreciation for opening time to meet in this most busy of periods. The Ambassador then offered deepest gratitude, on behalf of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, for the generous and selfless cooperation extended by Japan. Ambassador Fatimie pointed to real betterment of lives that has resulted therein. Commending the LDP for the party’s role within, Ambassador Fatimie praised Hon. Vice-President Komura and through His Honor the leadership of His party. In turn, Hon. Vice-President Komura pledged Japan would continue its support to Afghanistan as per the mandate of the Japanese people.

Mr. Jason Pratt, Public Affairs Officer at the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Tokyo, was also present at the meeting.

07-08/11/2012 Ambassador Fatimie visits Kyoto and Osaka, meets with Hon. Mayor Kadokawa, Hon. Vice-Governor Ohta, Hon. Governor Matsui

November 7-8, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie made an official visit to Osaka and Kyoto Prefectures, where he was honored to receive very warm welcomes and to facilitate even stronger and friendlier relations between the respective localities and the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Arriving in Kyoto on November 7th, Ambassador Fatimie was extended great hospitality by Hon. Mayor Daisaku Kadokawa (pictured above) upon arriving at His Honor’s office. Similarly, the Ambassador was treated to a very warm reception by Hon. Vice-Governor Noboru Ohta (pictured below) at the latter’s office later that same day. Ambassador Fatimie in his respective meetings first and foremost expressed deepest gratitude for the collective efforts of the Government and people of Japan, on behalf of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, for the selfless and life-bettering cooperation extended in development and peace-supporting initiatives. Kyoto has been a special partner within this, having in recent years hosted a number of Afghan-related events, including a speech by H.E. President Hamid Karzai at Doshisha University in 2010. The Ambassador made special reference to this fact, and highlighted the area’s ability to inspire in many areas, including the harmony of tradition and modernity that exists there. In response, both officials, as later would the Hon. Governor of Osaka, expressed determination to continue supporting Afghanistan, linking peace and security there to global peace and security.

On the following day, Ambassador Fatimie was extended the courtesy of a warm welcome by Hon. Governor Ichiro Matsui (pictured bottom) of Osaka. During this meeting, Ambassador Fatimie once again took the opportunity to laud Japanese assistance in development and peace in Afghanistan, offering sincerest gratitude and referring to said assistance as a key reason why Afghan men, women, and children live better and freer lives. In addition, Ambassador Fatimie praised Osaka many issues, including its ability to serve as another cultural and economic center, distinct from but in close cooperating with Tokyo.

Among the many key individuals that Ambassador Fatimie met with during this time, he wishes to extend humble appreciation and best wishes to the following: Director General Hironao Kojima, Director Hiroshi Yamaguchi, and Deputy Director Masanobu Murakami, all of the Kyoto Prefectural Government; Senior Executive Director Masayuki Kusumoto, Assitant Directors Yuji Kawatani and Hiroshi Sato, and Chief Senior Staff Yuichi Kitagawa, all of the Osaka Prefectural Government; Director Makoto Honma of the Kyoto State Guest House; Dr. Sultan Ahmad Salehi of NHK Culture Center in Kyoto; and Deputy General Manager and Ms. Hiromi Kato of Rihga Royal Hotels in Kyoto. There were a number of other very kind people that the Ambassador also sends his heart-felt appreciation to as well.

01/11/2012 Ambassador Fatimie attends reception in honor of anniversary of Japan Self-Defense Forces

November 1, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie attended a reception in honor of the anniversary of the Japan Self-Defense Forces at Grand Hill Ichigaya in Tokyo.

At this important event, Ambassador Fatimie had the express pleasure of speaking with H.E. Mr. Satoshi Morimoto, Minister of Defense (pictured above). Ambassador Fatimie offered his sincerest congratulations on this laudable anniversary. Further, the Ambassador conveyed deepest gratitude, on behalf of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, for the great and selfless efforts extended by Japan in the realms of peace, development, and security support, and for the role of H.E. Mr. Morimoto’s esteemed Ministry within. Also from the Ministry of Defense, Ambassador Fatimie had the honor to meet with H.E. Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense Motohiro Oono. To H.E. Mr. Oono, Ambassador also expressed the sincerest of congratulations and gratitude.

The large number of important additional dignitaries that Ambassador was able to meet also included H.E. Parliamentary Senior Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Shuji Kira, Hon. Councillor Fumiaki Toya, and Director General Reiichiro Takahashi of the Cabinet Office’s International Peace Cooperation Headquarters. To H.E. Mr. Kira, Ambassador Fatimie spoke of the positive benefits that Afghans have seen in their lives as a result of the cooperation facilitated by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ambassador Fatimie and H.E. pledged to keep in close contact. With Hon. Councillor Toya, Ambassador Fatimie discussed the significance of the people’s support for Afghanistan as manifest through their respectable representatives, the Diet members; additionally he offered true appreciation for the relationship of support and friendship between Japanese and Afghan parliamentarians. In his talk with Director-General Takahashi, Ambassador expressed sincerest gratitude regarding the Cabinet Office’s direct role in guiding the partnership of support and cooperation with Afghanistan, under the leadership of H.E. Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda. Furthermore, Ambassador Fatimie lauded Director-General Takahashi’s impact in Afghanistan during his term as Japanese Ambassador to the nation.

Ambassador Fatimie was also pleased to meet with Their Excellencies the Ambassadors of a number of nations as well as such figures as Read Admiral Unio Otsuka of the JMSDF.

16/10/2012 Ambassador Fatimie warmly receives H.E. Ambassador Yamamoto

October 16, 2012: 

Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie extended a warm reception to H.E. Ambassador Tadamichi Yamamoto, Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, at the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Tokyo. H.E. Ambassador Yamamoto has been named as Japan’s Ambassador designate to the Republic of Hungary and His visit was to inform on this development and to speak on issues of mutual interest leading up to His dispatch.

Having grown very close to H.E. Ambassador Yamamoto as a friend of Afghanistan and a personal trusted colleague, Ambassador Fatimie expressed deepest appreciation, on behalf of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, for H.E. Ambassador Yamamoto’s tireless strides to facilitate impact-producing cooperation between the two nations. Japan’s efforts, Ambassador Fatimie declared, have been selfless and generous, bringing real development and progress in the peace process, expressing sincerest gratitude. Within this, H.E. Ambassador Yamamoto personally led to enhanced capabilities, and Ambassador Fatimie particularly cited, with great gratitude, H.E.'s contributions to a successful Tokyo Conference on Afghanistan earlier this year. While H.E. Ambassador Yamamoto will be indeed missed, Ambassador Fatimie stated that He is definitely an excellent selection for the new posting and wished Him success in this new endeavor, assured that He would remain always a friend of the Afghan people in any role. Furthermore, Ambassador Fatimie pledged to build upon the excellent progress made under H.E. Ambassador Yamamoto with His successor.

04/10/2012 Ambassador Fatimie welcomes H.E. Ambassador-Designate Takahashi

October 4, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie and Dr. Bashir Mohabbat, Deputy Head of Mission, welcomed to the Embassy H.E. Ambassador-Designate Hiroshi Takahashi. H.E. Mr. Takahashi has been named as Japan’s next envoy to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. He has been serving as Senior Coordinator for Intelligence Analysis for the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Ambassador Fatimie firstly expressed with deepest sincerity appreciation for Japan’s generous and life-bettering assistance to Afghanistan’s peace and development. Having kept in close communication with H.E. Mr. Takashi, Ambassador Fatimie offered particular gratitude for H.E. Mr. Takahashi’s personal role in this cooperation thus far. Congratulating H.E. on his new role, Ambassador Fatimie expressed confidence in His ability to further the deep and friendly relations between the two allies. The Ambassador and H.E. the Ambassador-Designate spoke about a number of other issues of mutual interest as well.

21/09/2012 Ambassador Fatimie, Dr. Mohabbat attend Democratic Party of Japan Presidential Election

September 21, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie and Dr. Bashir Mohabbat, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Tokyo, attended the Democratic Party of Japan’s (DPJ’s) presidential election.

Ambassador Fatimie, along with all of Afghanistan as a young democracy, holds great respect for Japan’s democratic process. As Afghanistan’s party system develops, the Ambassador pays keen attention to Japan’s admirable process that allows for all people’s views to be represented through the balance of representatives from different parties as determined by the voters.


Ambassador Fatimie looks forward to offering at an opportune moment, on behalf of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, sincerest congratulations to H.E. Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda on his re-election, and gratitude to H.E. and the entire DPJ for its continuing dedication to seeing peace and development spread ever further in Afghanistan.

12/09/2012 Ambassador Fatimie, Embassy host reception in honor of the memories of H.E. the martyred Former President Rabbani, Commander Massoud, and all other heroes. Attended by visiting delegation, JICA staff, Afghan students

September 12, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie and the staff of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Tokyo hosted a reception to honor H.E. the martyred Former President Burhanuddin Rabbani, the heroic Commander Ahmad Shah Massoud, and all other heroes. Homage was paid to the better lives that were brought as a result of these individuals; they remain forever missed.

Attending this most special of receptions were members of an agricultural study group visiting Japan, their Japan International Cooperation Agency hosts, and representatives of the Afghan students pursuing education in Japan. Ambassador Fatimie, on behalf of the people and Government of Afghanistan, thanked the participants for sharing this meaningful occasion together with the Embassy staff, and encouraged all to continue with their personal roles in bettering the nation and the situation of Afghan people as a testament to our fallen heroes.

10/09/2012 Ambassador Fatimie welcomes Mr. Harada of the Liberal Democratic Party, Nagatacho Forum

September 10, 2012:
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie and Dr. Bashir Mohabbat, Deputy Head of Mission, extended a very warm welcome to the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Tokyo to Mr. Dan Harada of the Liberal Democratic Party. Mr. Harada also runs Nagatacho Forum, a bridge between foreign parties and the Japanese political world.

Ambassador Fatimie expressed his deep gratitude to Mr. Harada for his sage counsel that he has kindly offered since the Ambassador’s time in Japan, as well as with the preceding Ambassadors of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Moreover, Ambassador Fatimie offered sincerest appreciation for the efforts that Mr. Harada’s esteemed party has extended in support of peace and development in Afghanistan, citing many of the positive developments that this selfless and multifaceted cooperation has facilitated.

20-21/08/2012 Ambassador Fatimie visits Hokkaido, meets Hon. Gov. Takahashi, Hon. Mayor Ueda of Sapporo

August 20-21, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie paid a two-day visit to Hokkaido as part of his initiative to facilitate strong relations with both the central and local governments of Japan. His first trip to the northern-most prefecture, he was impressed greatly.

On his second day, the Ambassador called upon Hon. Mayor Fumio Ueda of Sapporo, who extended a very warm welcome. Ambassador Fatimie firstly expressed his gratitude, on behalf of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, for the selfless multi-dimensional support extended by the citizens of Japan, and key within that the people of Sapporo. Describing the impact that this has had upon all people, the Ambassador shared that even Afghan children have great respect and kinship for Japanese, citing this as evidence that these future leaders will ensure that relations between the two nations would flourish even more in the years ahead. Of the many topics discussed, Hon. Mayor Ueda showed great interest in the wealth of natural resources in Afghanistan, which Ambassador Fatimie had stated were open to Japanese investment.

The Hon. Mayor kindly in turn expressed His gratitude for the visit, saying that Sapporo, and moreover all of Japan, would continue to place high importance on cooperation with Afghanistan.

Ambassador Fatimie expressed his praise for the kind ladies and gentlemen of the Hon. Mayor’s office, including Hon. Vice Mayor Katsuhio Akimoto, Director Hidehiro Wakabayashi, Director Keiji Imai, and Ms. Hiroko Yonemori.

That same afternoon, Ambassador Fatimie also had the honor of being very cordially welcomed by Hon. Governor Harumi Takahashi at Her office.

Ambassador Fatimie also took the opportunity to express to the Hon. Governor the deepest appreciation of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, along with his own, for the generous support of the Japanese people, calling attention to the efforts of the people of Hokkaido. Again mentioning the closeness of the peoples of the two nations, Ambassador Fatimie illustrated this through stories of Afghan children who, following Japan’s disasters in March 2011, collected money to send to the victims and gathered in Bamiyan in prayer. Moved by these stories, Her Hon. the Governor expressed that Japan and Hokkaido must and will continue to work with Afghanistan for further peace and development, stating that she was already impressed with what had been accomplished thus far. Ambassador Fatimie thanked Hon. Governor Takahashi for the sentiment, adding that this progress was only possible due to Japan and the rest of the International Community’s efforts.

Ambassador Fatimie further mentioned the excellent hospitality of the Hon. Governor’s staff, including Director Masayuki Shinohara and Deputy Director Kabutoya.

(Hon. Governor Takahashi holds a piece of Afghan Lapis Lazuli. Like Hon. Mayor Ueda, the Hon. Governor was impressed by the information of Afghanistan’s natural resources)

04/07/2012 Ambassador Fatimie attends JICA Forum "What can we do for the Peace in Afghanistan?"

July 4, 2012:

Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie attended the Forum "What can we do for the Peace in Afghanistan?" organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency at the Imperial Hotel.

The event was organized as a parallel function to the Tokyo Conference on Afghanistan as part of JICA and the Japanese Government’s awareness raising initiatives. The very distinguished panel and commentators featured Dr. Akihiko Tanaka, President of JICA, Mr. Lakhdar Brahimi, Former UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Afghanistan, and Madame Sadako Ogata, Special Advisor to the President of JICA. Topics of the day focused greatly on how the International Community and specifically Japan could contribute to Afghanistan’s peace and development.

Ambassador Fatimie was able to have the honor to express, on behalf of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, deepest gratitude to each of the esteemed speakers, both for their respective individual roles in bringing better lives to Afghans up to now as well as for their participation in this most important of events. Ambassador Fatimie further encouraged all of them to remain engaged in the future, detailing the significant contributions that each has made to the progress that has been made thus far.

26/06/2012 Ambassador Fatimie meets with H.E. Ambassador Yamamoto

June 26, 2012:
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie was warmly received by H.E. Ambassador Tadamichi Yamamoto, Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, at his office at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan in Tokyo.
Ambassador Fatimie first took this opportunity to once again express deepest appreciation, on behalf of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, for Japan’s selfless and life-improving efforts towards Afghan peace and development. Recognizing H.E. Ambassador Yamamoto as a relentless champion within Japan’s multi-sector cooperation, Ambassador Fatimie spoke of the great confidence in the success of Japanese initiatives that Afghanistan has knowing that this key individual is involved.
While a number of key issues were discussed, the Ambassadors paid considerable attention to discussing preparations for the upcoming Tokyo Conference on Afghanistan. Japan once again through this conference is proving its unquestionable friendship to Afghans as it will rally some 80 nations and international organizations in support of the Afghan people in the years to come.
(photo above taken October 28, 2011)

26/06/2012 Ambassador Fatimie meets with Hon. Councillor Fujita

June 26, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie was warmly received by Hon. Councillor Yukihisa Fujita at the latter’s office in Tokyo.

Ambassador Fatimie firstly took this excellent opportunity to express the deepest gratitude of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan for the selfless and life-bettering support that Japan has extended in a comprehensive array of sectors, specifically calling attention to the House of Councillors’ role in approving related legislation and rallying their constituents. Extending great appreciation for efforts made towards supporting the upcoming Tokyo Conference on Afghanistan, the Ambassador briefed the Hon. Councillor on the Afghan preparations toward this historic event.

The two sides spoke on a range of issues, including the importance of parliamentary ties between the two nations.

21/06/2012 Ambassador Fatimie, Embassy staff welcome Hon. Councillor Himei, members of NGO “Results”

June 21, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie and the members of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Tokyo welcomed Hon. Councillor Yumiko Himei and visitors from NGO “Results.”

Ambassador Fatimie expressed sincerest gratitude to Ms. Himei, on behalf of the people and Government of Afghanistan, for the generous and life-bettering support that Japan has provided through the leadership and facilitation of its noble Diet. The Ambassador spoke of the historical and friendly connections that these two countries have enjoyed. As the nations established official diplomatic ties 82 years ago, Ambassador Fatimie conveyed that the relations between the two governments is vital and should be even-further strengthened. The Hon. Councillor kindly reciprocated the sentiments, adding that she is hopeful and supportive of a successful outcome in the upcoming Tokyo Conference on Afghanistan.

The members of NGO “Results,” who share ties with Hon. Councillor Himei, spoke of their grassroots work to end poverty. Ambassador Fatimie, being familiar with their project in Afghanistan to address tuberculosis, commended the group on its important initiative and encouraged them to continue improving the health of Afghans and people around the world. NGO “Results” will be a participant at the upcoming CSO Conference organized in parallel to the Tokyo Conference.

14/06/2012 Ambassador Fatimie meets with Hon. Representative Nikai

June 14, 2012:

Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie received a warm welcome from Hon. Representative Toshihiro Nikai at His office in Tokyo. Graciously accompanying the Ambassador was Deputy Director-General Tsukasa Uemura of the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Second Middle East Division.

Ambassador Fatimie firstly expressed deepest gratitude, on behalf of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, for Japan’s selfless and effect-generating cooperation in peace and development. Speaking on the importance within this of the Japan-Afghanistan Parliamentary Friendship League, where Hon. Representative Nikai has been a key member, Ambassador Fatimie requested the Hon. Representative’s help in furthering the reach of this League. Ambassador Fatimie presented a letter of appreciation to this effect.

06/06/2012 Ambassador Fatimie attends reception for Mayors of municipalities across Japan hosted by H.E. Foreign Minister Gemba

June 6, 2012: 

Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie attended a reception for the Mayors of a number of municipalities across Japan hosted by H.E. Foreign Minister Koichiro Gemba (pictured above) at the Iikura House in Tokyo. This reception was organized in large part to allow for the diplomatic community to forge stronger ties with Japanese municipalities, the importance of which was emphasized by H.E. Foreign Minister Gemba in his speech, referring to this as an extension of Japan’s diplomatic policy.


Ambassador Fatimie had the honor of meeting with a number of key attendees that evening, including H.E. the Foreign Minister, to whom he extended deepest gratitude, on behalf of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, both for the cooperation that has been generously extended to Afghanistan’s peace and development already, and for the enlightened initiative of the upcoming Tokyo Conference on Afghanistan. H.E. Foreign Minister Gemba kindly expressed his desire to see a successful and impactful result come forth from the Conference.

Other key figures that the Ambassador met also included the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan’s Director General Shigeo Matsutomi and Director Shinichi Asazuma of the Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau, whom Ambassador asked to extend to his colleagues sincerest gratitude for the role that the Bureau plays in connecting the two nations; and Director Hideaki Kuramitsu of the European Policy Division and Asia-Europe Cooperation Division of the European Affairs Bureau, whom he extended deepest gratitude to for the Bureau’s contribution to the training of Afghan police forces. Additionally, Ambassador Fatimie was able to interact with Hon. Mayor Tamio Mori (pictured below) of Nagaoka city, who serves as a chief of the Mayors’ grouping, and a comprehensive number of Mayors in attendance.

04/06/2012 Ambassador Fatimie attends 10th meeting of Café Democrats

June 4, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie attended the 10th meeting of Café Democrats at the headquarters of the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) in Tokyo. The forum is regularly organized to provide a venue for the diplomatic community to learn of and discuss with the DPJ a number of topics issues at hand.

In the latest session, the changes to the Cabinet of Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda, announced that day, were explained. Hon. Director General Issei Tajima of the DPJ International Department welcomed the participants, sharing points related. The Hon. Director General was followed by a briefing from Hon. Deputy Chair Takeaki Matsumoto of the DPJ’s Diet Affairs Committee and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, who spoke on “Diet situation and prospects,” explaining among other points that there are currently no plans to dissolve the Lower House for a general election.

Among the dignified attendees and participants, Ambassador Fatimie was fortunate to be able to speak with Hon. Representative Seiichiro Dokyu and Hon. Representative Takeaki Matsumoto, who, in addition to the Hon. Mr. Tajima, the Ambassador expressed deepest appreciation, on behalf of his people and Government, for the generous and unfaltering support provided by Japan in a number of impactful initiatives supporting peace and development in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

24/05/2012 Ambassador Fatimie visits Sendai, Miyagi prefecture, meets with Hon. Vice-Governor Wako, Hon. Mayor Okuyama, Hon. Vice Mayor Ito

May 24, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie, in order to extend anew feelings of support to the areas that suffered from the devastating disasters of March 11, 2011, visited Sendai, Miyagi prefecture. Throughout his stay, he described the area as a warm, hospitable area, vibrant with its efforts in overcoming the suffering that has afflicted the city, prefecture, and surrounding prefectures. 


Ambassador Fatimie was accompanied by Mr. Kazuo Aoki of the NGO GHG Emissions Trading Agency (pictured above, upper right), a great and close friend of the Embassy who provided invaluable support, including arranging for translation and providing other parties with a Japanese insight into the realities of ever-increasing peace in Afghanistan and friendship between the nations.

Ambassador Fatimie had the opportunity to meet with three of the areas noble leaders at their respective offices, Hon. Vice-Governor Masahiro Wako (pictured above, lower left), Hon. Mayor Emiko Okuyama (pictured below), and Hon. Vice Mayor Yukimoto Ito (also pictured below); the Ambassador praised as ambitious visionaries and dedicated hard-workers in the recovery of the area. Offering deepest condolences, on behalf of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, on the tragic losses of lives and the destruction that was suffered in the disasters and their aftermath, Ambassador Fatimie spoke of the love and kinship felt by Afghans for Japanese people, not only at the level of officials but to all members of society. As evidence of the mourning that was felt as a result of these close feelings, Ambassador Fatimie presented the respective prefectural and municipal leaders with drawings made by the children of Bamiyan to the children of Japan following the disasters; all were moved deeply. The officials in turn briefed Ambassador Fatimie on the suffering that has been felt by the people and the efforts to rebuild. The Ambassador expressed that the noble people of Japan have a difficult task ahead of them, but have proven themselves capable of overcoming any adversity quickly. Expressing Afghanistan’s sincere willingness to help Japan in any way it can both in terms of rebuilding these affected areas and in strengthening its position as a global leader, the Ambassador mentioned that the riches of natural resources in Afghanistan are open to Japanese investment; all agreed that now is the time to pursue this investment.

Having been impressed by the hospitable and warm treatment that he received in this prefecture and the city of Sendai, in addition to Their Honors, Ambassador Fatimie praised the members of their esteemed offices, in particular Director Akira Chiba of Miyagi Prefecture’s International Affairs Division and Director Shusaku Takahashi and Ms. Kyoko Sugawara of the City of Sendai.


To read the report in the Kahoku Shimpo newspaper in Japanese, click here.

15/05/2012 Ambassador Fatimie attends reception in honor of Director General Matsutomi hosted by H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi of the State of Kuwait

May 15, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie and the Ambassadress attended a reception in honor of Director General of Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau Shigeo Matsutomi of the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and his esteemed wife. The event was hosted by H.E. Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Humood A.R. Al-Otaibi at the Embassy of the State of Kuwait.

Ambassador Fatimie first took the opportunity to congratulate H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi on this latest initiative to bring together key people from the host nation and concerned nations to increase ties and friendship in a relaxed and comfortable format; the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan’s inclusion is another example of the comprehensive and far reaching support that the State of Kuwait provides to Afghanistan.

Ambassador Fatimie expressed to Director General Matsutomi deepest gratitude for Japan’s ever-present prominent position in furthering development and peace in Afghanistan and the region, as the Director General briefed attendees on his recent visit to the Middle East and North Africa. Director General Matsutomi also shared of H.E. Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Ryuji Yamane’s visit to Kabul, saying that H.E. referred to the visit as productive and satisfactory.

The very friendly atmosphere of this reception was enhanced further by the presence of Their Excellencies the Ambassadors and Ambassadresses of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the State of Qatar, the Republic of Tunisia, and the Republic of Djibouti. The participants together warmly discussed a number of matters of shared interest, with great interest shown regarding developments in Afghanistan, particularly the upcoming Tokyo Conference.

26-27/04/2012 Ambassador Fatimie visits Okinawa prefecture, meets with Hon. Governor Nakaima, Hon. Mayor Onaga of Naha

April 26-27, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie, as part of the Ambassador’s initiative to individually deepen ties with the prefectures of Japan, visited Okinawa prefecture. Throughout his trip, Ambassador Fatimie was thoroughly impressed and moved by the hospitality extended by the prefecture’s officers and citizens, which began with a warm welcome at Naha airport.

The Ambassador was first escorted to the prefectural government’s office, being received by Hon. Governor Hirokazu Nakaima (pictured above). Before officially meeting with Hon. Gov. Nakaima, Ambassador Fatimie met with Director General Daiichi Hirata and Director Hajime Terukina of the prefecture’s Department of Culture, Tourism, and Sports. In the subsequent meeting kindly arranged with Hon. Governor Nakaima, the Ambassador firstly offered appreciation for the excellent arrangements that had been made. Expressing deepest sympathy regarding the tragic affects of the March 11, 2011 disasters on behalf of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, expressing sincerest gratitude for the selfless and comprehensive aid that Japan, and specifically Okinawa, has provided unabated to Afghanistan’s development and peace process. Speaking on the extended history of friendship and mutual support between their two respective nations, the Hon. Governor firstly thanked Afghanistan for its assistance following March 11, 2011, and stated that his prefecture and nation would continue forever this mutual friendship and cooperation. The Hon. Governor took great interest in Afghanistan’s vast mineral reserves as one potential point of further cooperation. In closing, the two exchanged gifts, with Ambassador Fatimie receiving a beautiful book detailing the prefectures unique and rich history and culture.

Ambassador Fatimie was then escorted to the office of Hon. Mayor Takeshi Onaga of Naha (pictured below). Once again taking the opportunity to express humble condolences on the disasters and gratitude for the assistance that Japan, and the people of Naha within, have provided to Afghanistan, the Hon. Mayor graciously described the Afghan-Japanese and Afghan-Naha partnerships as important and increasing in their strength and depth. Also showing himself to be an excellent host and leader, Ambassador Fatimie was left with a truly positive impression of the Hon. Mayor and Governor respectively.

25/04/2012 Ambassador Fatimie welcomes to the Embassy Hon. Representative Moriyama

April 25, 2012: 

Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie and the staff of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Tokyo extended a warm welcome to Hon. Representative Hiroyuki Moriyama, a member of several important parliamentary committees.

Honored by the visit of this esteemed guest, Ambassador Fatimie firstly expressed sincerest gratitude, on behalf of the people and Government of Afghanistan, to Hon. Representative Moriyama for Japan’s selfless and impact generating support, and the House of Representatives’ key role within, to Afghanistan’s peace and development. Ambassador Fatimie further mentioned that Osaka prefectures citizens have been true allies in the further strengthening of Afghan-Japanese relations.

In turn, the Hon. Representative kindly reassured that the support of Japan will continue. Echoing the Ambassador’s sentiment of the closeness between the people of the nations, Hon. Representative Moriyama called Afghans friends of the Japanese, and invited Ambassador Fatimie to visit Osaka prefecture and his constituency, Sakai, in May.

19/04/2012 Ambassador Fatimie attends event hosted by Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress at the Imperial Gardens

April 19, 2012: Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie attended an event hosted by Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress at the Imperial Gardens. The event brought together the diplomatic community in Japan and key Japanese figures to further deepen ties with Their Majesties and the host nation.

On this most special and important of occasions, Ambassador Fatimie had the honor of expressing deepest gratitude to Their Majesties the Emperor, the Empress, the Crown Prince, and members of the Imperial Family for Their generous and noble support to Afghanistan’s peace and development; and for further, as esteemed embodiments of the Japanese nation and people’s will, graciously ever enhancing the ties between the nations.

Ambassador Fatimie was also able to interact with and express further the sincerest appreciation of the Afghan people and government to a number of key people, including H.E. Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda, Hon. Councillor Naoto Kan, H.E. Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yukio Edano, and H.E. Foreign Minister Koichiro Gemba (pictured below). In addition to the warm greetings exchanges with these figures, Ambassador Fatimie’s talks with H.E. Minister Gemba were particularly fruitful.

 

18/04/2012 Ambassador Fatimie offers encouragement and prayers in H.M. the Emperor’s recovery, receives letter of appreciation from Imperial Household Agency

April 18, 2012: Following H.E. the Emperor’s recent successful medical procedure and the inspiring start of rehabilitation, Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie extended his prayers and sent to H.M., through the Imperial Household Agency, a letter wishing a speedy recovery. Holding great respect for H.M. and for the power to inspire the noble Japanese people that H.M. possesses, the recovery is of utmost interest to Ambassador Fatimie.

The Imperial Household Agency, on behalf of H.M. the Emperor, generously sent a reply, which can be read by clicking the photo above.

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13/04/2012 Ambassador Fatimie attends reception on the occasion of the visit of His Majesty King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa of the Kingdom of Bahrain featuring presentation by H.E. Minister Fakhro and H.E. Vice Minister Hamada of Japan

April 13, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie attended a reception on the occasion of the visit of His Majesty King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa of the Kingdom of Bahrain at the Imperial Hotel, following the dignified a dignified reception in honor of His Majesty as well the previous night. The reception of the 13th allowed for the opportunity to listen to speeches by H.E. Dr. Hassan Abdulla Fakhro (pictured above), Minister of Trade and Economy for the Kingdom, and H.E. Dr. Kazuyuki Hamada, Japan’s Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs. Ambassador Fatimie praised both speeches as informative and enlightening.


Taking the opportunity to again thank the representatives of both esteemed organizing nations, the Kingdom of Bahrain and Japan, Ambassador Fatimie expressed that the successes that have been happening in Afghanistan are borne from the cooperating extended by the international community, citing both of the respective nations as generous and effective supporters of comprehensive development and peace initiatives. Furthermore, the Ambassador expressed pleasure that these two positive forces in the world were further deepening relations.

Among the numerous excellent attendees, Ambassador Fatimie was able to meet with H.E. Ambassador John Roos (pictured below) of the Embassy of the United States of America; sharing a positive discussion on matters of mutual interest and expressing deepest gratitude for the United State’s unwavering support as an invaluable ally of the Afghan people and Government. Additionally, Ambassador Fatimie was able to meet with members of the Japan-Bahrain Parliamentary Friendship League; Ms. Annette Note, Minister-Councilor and Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of the Marshall Islands; Hon. Mr. Yukio Takahashi and Hon. Kazumi Uehara of Atami’s City Council; amd President Abdulrahman Jawahery of Gulf Petrochemical Industries Co.; among other important guests.

10/04/2012 Ambassador Fatimie, Embassy host a reception in honor of the exemplary service of Madame Sadako Ogata

April 10, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie and the staff of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Tokyo hosted a lunch reception to honor the exemplary service of Madame Sadako Ogata (pictured below, top photo). Madame Ogata is retired as President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and was well known and highly regarded around the world as a champion of development, empowerment, and peace in a comprehensive number of nations.

The event brought together more than 100 distinguished supporters and well-wishers from such areas as the Japanese Government, the diplomatic community in Japan, NGOs, and private sector leaders. Expressing their unique views and forms of respect for Madame Ogata, speakers included Ambassador Fatimie, H.E. Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Kazuyuki Hamada (pictured below, middle photo), and Madame Ogata’s successor, Mr. Akihiko Tanaka (pictured below, bottom photo). To read the Ambassador’s speech, click here. Madame Ogata also spoke to the assembled, sharing reflections of her career in JICA, the encouraging progress she witnessed in Afghanistan, and motivating others to work towards the shared dream of world peace and prosperity. Following the speeches, Ambassador Fatime presented Madame Ogata with a certificate of appreciation and a lapis vase; representing the Afghan community in Japan, Mr. Haji Hussein, Ms. Eto, and Ms. Sultani presented flowers; and Mr. Kohi Amin presented a gift of Afghan artistry.

Among the many key guests attending Madame Ogata’s honorary reception were Hon, former Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda (pictured below, top photo), Hon. Mr. Naoto Sakaguchi, Hon. Ms. Mieko Nakabayashi, Hon. Mr. Haranobu Yonenaga, Hon. Ms. Hiroko Oizumi, Hon. Mr. Hirotaka Matsuoka, Hon. Mr. Hiroyuki Moriyama, and Hon. Mr. Hiroshi Hamamoto.

16/03/2012 Ambassador Fatimie and Dr. Mohabbat visit Iwate Prefecture, meet with Hon. Governor Tasso, Hon. Mayor Tanifuji of Morioka

March 16, 2012: 
Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie and Dr. Bashir Mohabbat, Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Tokyo, as part of the Ambassador’s initiative to pay proper respects to all prefectures of Japan, visited Iwate prefecture.
Arriving at Morioka station, Ambassador Fatimie and Dr. Mohabbat were received warmly by the city of Morioka’s protocol officer Mr. Chiba, who upon thanking them for paying a visit to the city, took them on a tour of the local museum, which beautifully gave insight into the prefecture’s history and artistry, accompanied by Ms. Miyako Hatanaka (pictured below), the Museum's head.

 Following the tour, the Ambassador and Dr. Mohabbat had the pleasure of being received cordially by Hon. Mayor Hiroaki Tanifuji (pictured below). Ambassador Fatimie first took the opportunity to express his sincerest condolences on the March 11, 2011 disasters both for their overall effects on the nation, and specifically for the hardships endured by the people and Government of Morioka. Building upon this, Ambassador Fatimie joined the people, in particular the children, and the Government in offering prayers to wish that such tragedy never again affect the Japanese people and the people of Morioka and Iwate so severely again. Ambassador Fatimie also expressed deepest appreciation for the efforts of Japanese people, and within that the people of Morioka, to support Afghanistan’s peace and development. In turn, Hon. Mayor Tanifuji expressed sincere gratitude for the sentiments and the visit to His esteemed city, saying that He considers Japan’s support to Afghanistan to be an integral commitment. Ambassador Fatimie then presented the Hon. Mayor with a letter of condolence and support, as well as a token of Afghanistan’s friendship with the city.



Ambassador Fatimie and Dr. Mohabbat then called upon the Hon. Governor’s office, first speaking with the Director General of the Prefecture’s International Department, Mr. Chiyoshi Hatakeyama, then receiving a heartfelt welcome from Hon. Governor Takuya Tasso (top photo). Ambassador Fatimie also used the opportunity here to express condolences to the Hon. Governor on the impact of the March 11, 2011 disasters on His prefecture and the greater Japan, expressing the solidarity of the Afghan people with the Japanese people. Building upon the Ambassador’s description of the close ties between the two respective peoples, Hon. Governor Tasso expressed that he too felt an ever-increasing closeness between Afghans and Japanese, saying that he was moved by the support of the Afghan brothers and sisters following the disasters. The parties agreed to further increase ties between Afghanistan and Iwate, and Ambassador Fatimie presented the Hon. Mayor with a letter of condolence and support, as well as a token of Afghanistan’s friendship with the city, before returning to Tokyo.

1/01/2012 Ambassador, Ambassadress attend New Year reception at the Imperial Palace

January 1, 2012: Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie and the Ambassadress attended a reception in honor of the New Year at the Imperial Palace.

The Ambassador and Ambassadress offered to the Imperial Couple respectful gestures of congratulations on the New Year.

A number of Japanese and international dignitaries were on hand for the event, as pictured above.

01/01/2012 Ambassador, Ambassadress attend New Year reception at the Imperial Palace

January 1, 2012: Ambassador Dr. Sayed M. Amin Fatimie and the Ambassadress attended a reception in honor of the New Year at the Imperial Palace. The Ambassador and Ambassadress offered to the Imperial Couple respectful gestures of congratulations on the New Year. A number of Japanese and international dignitaries were on hand for the event, as pictured above.

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