Welcome to Ambassador Pheko's blog entitled 'Letter from Tokyo'.
It is my intention to use this blog to share my experiences in Japan and to give you some insights on working and living in Japan. I must confess one thing before we begin. I have the best job in the world. Serving my country South Africa in the 3rd largest economy in the world is such an honour! What a remarkable amazing people and country we are. Sharing who we are, our dreams and aspirations in Japan is such an enormous pleasure. What job would give you a ride in in a carriage to go and meet the Emperor of Japan?
I have another confession to make. Former Minister Tokyo Sexwale was in Tokyo recently attending an installation of some of former President Nelson Mandela's work. Interesting that it took a man named Tokyo to suggest that I write a blog entitled 'Letter from Tokyo', to share insights about our work and opportunities in Japan for South Africans. In turn I also want to share opportunities with the Japanese that exist in South Africa. So Tokyo, here is your 'Letter from Tokyo'.
I have learned a lot in Japan. Slowly I am learning the Japanese language. As I pick up new words and phrases, I am becoming more confident in throwing a phrase or two in my communication. I am digging deeper into understanding what makes this very small country geographically, with a population of 129 million people tick. Its a fascinating country, with many values that we share.
This space gives me the opportunity to share the culture, politics and economy of Japan. Many South Africans have not been to Japan. I hope through this blog to provide a small window that enables you to peep in. My journeys have take me to many places in Japan. It is my desire and hope that through this blog, I will contribute to bridging South Africa and Japan more. Next year in 2014 our relations will be 104 years old. Not shabby for two countries that are a 17 hour flight away.
What I hope to do is to give you a glimpse of what I do during the day, and give you some thoughts on why I think South Africa should continue to build stronger and more strategic ties with Japan.
I look forward to hearing your comments and experiences.
Ambassador Pheko
www.sajapan.org/
Sayonara!
Dear Ambassador Pheko
ReplyDeleteThank you very much for creating a block that give us a platform to discuss our experiences in living in Japan and, I hope South Africans living in Japan will fully utilise the block to share in their experiences and opportunities that exist.
Thank you.
Lebogang Tsae.