Mekong-Japan Exchange Year 2009 started

A ceremony to celebrate the opening of Mekong-Japan Exchange Year 2009 was held on 27 January at the residence of the Japanese Ambassador Massaki Miyashita.
The Mekong-Japan Exchange Year is aimed at enhancing understanding, collaboration, and partnership between Mekong Region countries and Japan. Throughout this year, there will be numerous exchange programmes in Mekong Region countries (Lao PDR, Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam) as well as in Japan. Earlier this month, 20 Lao young artists participated in the grand opening ceremony of the Mekong-Japan Exchange year in Tokyo, giving a performance of Lao traditional music and dance.

In his speech, the Ambassador Miyashita emphasized the importance of socio-economic development of the Mekong Region, especially the Lao PDR and Japan’s commitment as a partner.
The opening ceremony was followed by a music concert by Japanese duo “Anmitsu”, well known artists who won prize in National Tsugaru Syamisen and Folk Song Contests. In the performance, they played “Tsugaru Syamisen”, three-stringed Japanese traditional instrument. They will give another concert on 28th January at 19:00 at the National Culture Hall.
The opening ceremony was also attended by H.E Dr. Thongloun Sisoulith, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E Mr. Bouangeun Xaphouvong, Deputy Minister of Information and Culture, Mr. Ponemek Dalaloy, minister of public health and President of Lao-Japan Friendship Association, Mrs. Khempheng Pholsena, minister to the prime minister’s office, Mr. Khamsing Sayakone, Chairman of the Economy, Planning and Finance Commission, National Assembly and President of Lao-Japan Parliamentary Friendship Association, senior officials, member of diplomatic corps and representatives of international organizations.