From Ambassador

  

It is always difficult and I tend to get a little sentimental when I have to say “Sayonara” or “Goodbye”, but, nevertheless, the time has come for me to say so.
 
Looking back, I set my foot on Iceland in November 2016, 3 years and 4 months ago. At that time, I felt humbled, but at the same time, quite happy to be appointed as Ambassador to this beautiful country.
 
I also decided early on that I should share my findings about Iceland-Japan relations as well as the society and culture of Iceland, with as many people by way of writing regular essays for the embassy webpage.
 
Since this is going to be my last essay, I wish to briefly review the status of our expanding bilateral relationship while expressing my sincere appreciation to all the Icelandic people who have guided and befriended me during my stay here. 
 
As you know, Iceland and Japan, despite their geographical distance, share many things in common. We are both island countries with homogeneous population. Fishing has been an important industry for both countries. We are both blessed with beautiful nature but at the same time under threat from natural disasters. We also share the fundamental value of rule of law, human rights and democracy.
 
At a time when the world faces so many challenges such as poverty, terrorism and global warming, I believe that our partnership in tackling these issues matters more than ever.
 
Fortunately, our partnership has never been stronger, marked by accelerated exchanges in many different fields.
 
On the governmental level, high-level mutual visits are rapidly expanding highlighted by the visit of President, former President and many Ministers to Japan. From Japan, we have welcomed the Foreign Minister and more than a dozen ministers and parliament members.
 
In 2020 alone, further visits to Japan are scheduled by President, former President and many Ministers while our two countries are to co-host the 3rd Arctic Ministerial Meeting in Tokyo in November.
 
Institutional frameworks between Iceland and Japan have been further cemented with the signing of the Tax Treaty and the introduction of Working Holiday Agreement. Working level discussion on an Aviation Agreement as well as a Free Trade Agreement have also started.
 
Many new businesses, especially export from Iceland have blossomed, including exports of fish, lamb and horsemeat, as well as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Very soon, production and sale of Skyr will also start in Japan. From Japan, import of cars and other electronic products continues and investment in the IT and tourism industries are planned.
 
Cultural and educational exchanges have also been strengthened through the expansion of exchange programs of universities in both countries while academic cooperation, such as joint research projects, is also increasing. A three week Japan tour by the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and the Harpa concert of pianist Nobuyuki Tsujii were indeed epoch-making events.
 
As an Ambassador, it has been my utmost privilege and honor to have been able to contribute to the betterment and enhancement of a truly remarkable relationship between Iceland and Japan. I also wish to thank all those people who were instrumental in helping to achieve these results.
 
On a more personal note, my stay here has been full of fascination. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to visit all corners of the country, from Vestmannaeyjar to Siglufjörður, from Vík to Húsavík and from Ísafjörður to Seyðisfjörður.
 
Wherever I went, I was awed with breath-taking beauty of nature, but more than anything, I was always touched and moved by the warm hospitality of the Icelandic people.
 
It is also impossible to forget the good times I have had with the numerous Icelandic guests welcomed to my residence who have shared with me interesting insights into the Icelandic society and its people.
 
As I leave this beautiful and vibrant country, I cannot help but feel a sense of sadness for what I will miss. There is, however, no greater solace than realizing that I am leaving with a wealth of friends and acquaintances. I am certain that memories of those associations will long hold a dear place in my heart.
 
Knowing that our bilateral relationship continues to thrive, I would like to pass the baton to my successor.
 
Thank you so much!
 
Takk fyrir allt saman og sjáumst aftur!