New Year's Message from Consul-General Wajima
2026/1/1
I would like to extend my best wishes for a bright and happy new year to everyone.
Looking back to 2025, it was truly a fulfilling year for us.
In June, the G7 Summit was held in Kananaskis, reaffirming the importance of upholding and strengthening a free and open international order, as well as the continued partnership between Japan and Canada. Additionally, we were able to experience a wide range of exchanges between Japan and Canada through milestone events, including the 100th anniversary of the first ascent of Mount Alberta, the 45th anniversary of the sister city relationship between Hokkaido and Alberta, the 55th anniversary of the sister city relationship between Setagaya Ward and Winnipeg City, the 125th anniversary of Okinawan immigration to Canada, and the first North American Yosakoi Festival.
I and my colleagues were fortunate to travel widely across our jurisdiction, and build meaningful new connections. It was also a year that served as an important reminder the value of maintaining friendly relationships by engaging in person and listening directly. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who welcomed us with such warmth and hospitality during our visits.
Now, this year marks my third year serving in Calgary. I hope to further develop the relationships we have cultivated and to further strengthen cooperation between our jurisdiction and Japan.In this increasingly complex international climate, Japan must continue to advance efforts to ensure its peace, stability, and security. Such efforts are supported by strong alliances with trusted partners. Canada is a country with which we share fundamental values such as democracy, the rule of law, and freedom of expression., I believe this makes Canada an essential strategic partner across the Pacific Ocean.
The region within our jurisdiction offers a reliable source of energy, agricultural goods, and critical minerals, which are increasingly vital to Japan’s economic security and long-term stability. As close bilateral relationships are not built overnight, we will continue to value the accumulation of small efforts that sustain mutual trust and cooperation.
This year, all staff will strive to work together with state government officials, economic and corporate stakeholders from both countries, and Japanese cultural organizations to lay the foundation to contributing to the development and strengthening of relations between Japan and Canada. We will continue to do our utmost to enhance consular services for Japanese residents living in the jurisdiction, as well as for Japanese people visiting for travel or business. We sincerely ask for your continued support and cooperation.
To conclude my New Year’s greetings, I extend my deepest wishes for your health, happiness, prosperity, and the continued success of your endeavors. It is my hope that this is the year for furthering the development of Japan-Canada relations.
Thank you for your attention and continued partnership.
New Year's Day, 2026
Consul-General of Japan in Calgary
Takehiko Wajima