Ambassador Suzuki’s visit to Wales

From 14 to 15 October, Ambassador Hiroshi Suzuki visited Wales. During his visit he held discussions with Welsh Government officials, visited a Japanese company, and participated in cherry tree planting ceremonies.
 

Visit to the Welsh Parliament

On 14 October, Ambassador Suzuki visited the Welsh Parliament and toured the Siambr, the Welsh Parliament’s debating chamber, accompanied by Presiding Officer Huw Irranca-Davies MS and Deputy Presiding Officer Kerry Ferguson MS. He then met with the Rt Hon Rhun ap Iorwerth MS, First Minister of Wales. They discussed a wide range of topics, including the activities of Japanese companies in Wales, with a view to further strengthening and deepening Japan-Wales relations.

He also met members of the newly established Cross-Party Friends of Japan Group in the Welsh Parliament to discuss initiatives for future collaborations.
 

Visit to GS Yuasa Battery

Accompanied by local MP, Nick Smith, Ambassador Suzuki visited GS Yuasa Battery, a Japanese company that manufactures and sells automotive and industrial storage batteries. They received a briefing on GS Yuasa Battery’s business operations, as well as its contributions to the environment and local community, and exchanged views with company representatives.
 

Attendance at cherry tree planting ceremonies and visit to Aberfan Cemetery

On 15 October, Ambassador Suzuki attended cherry tree planting ceremonies at two primary schools in Aberfan, Ysgol Rhyd Y Grug and Ynysowen Community Primary School. The ceremonies were held to mark the 60th anniversary of the Aberfan disaster, in remembrance of the victims and to convey a message of hope for the future. Participants included the Lord-Lieutenant and High Sheriff of Mid Glamorgan, the Mayor of Merthyr Tydfil, and the teachers and pupils of both schools.

Following the ceremonies, Ambassador Suzuki laid a wreath at Aberfan Cemetery to pay respect to the victims.