Japan’s envoy thanked for service

GOVERNOR-General Sir Michael Ogio has thanked outgoing Japanese ambassador Morio Matsumoto for his service and contributions towards strengthening ties between the two countries.
“You have accomplished a lot for PNG. We are grateful to the Government of Japan for its continued support in trade as well as financial assistance towards our country’s development,”  Sir Michael said.
“You have built major infrastructure throughout the country.
“The Autonomous Region of Bougainville now has nine bridges connecting our people from North to South and Central Bougainville assistance.”
Matsumoto said he had come to love the country and its people.
“I get a warm welcome wherever I travel,” he said.
“You have warm friendly people and a beautiful country which I have come to love very much.”
Matsumoto said he tried to promote cultural exchanges between PNG and Japan.
Already, 80 students from PNG have visited Japan on such exchange programmes.
He was impressed to see that despite being exposed to foreign cultures, the students continued to maintain their cultural identities.