Japan’s crown prince honours settlers who built Paraguay ties

Japan's Crown Prince Fumihito and his wife, Crown Princess Kiko, participated in a ceremony on Friday to commemorate the 90th anniversary of Japanese immigration to Paraguay. The event, held near the capital city of Asunción, saw around 650 attendees, including President Santiago Pena and his wife. During the ceremony, the crown prince praised the contributions of Japanese immigrants and their descendants to Paraguay, emphasizing their role in strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations. The royal couple, who are on an official visit to Paraguay, began their activities with a floral tribute at a memorial site dedicated to deceased settlers. They later engaged with members of the Japanese community, currently estimated to number approximately 10,000. The first wave of Japanese immigrants, consisting of 81 individuals from 11 families, arrived in 1936 and established a settlement in La Colmena, located in the south-central region of Paraguay. This historical migration has had a lasting impact on both cultural and economic aspects of Paraguay. President Pena acknowledged the Japanese community's contributions to agriculture, education, and societal development, highlighting these efforts as key elements of Paraguay’s multicultural identity. He expressed gratitude for the ongoing support and collaboration between the two nations. The crown prince reiterated this sentiment, stating that the relationship between Japan and Paraguay owes much to the perseverance and dedication of the immigrant communities and their descendants. During the event, Crown Prince Fumihito reflected on the challenges faced by early settlers and their ability to adapt and thrive in a foreign land. His remarks underscored the enduring legacy of the Japanese presence in Paraguay. The prince noted that the continued engagement of the Japanese community serves as a vital link between the two countries, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation. Ikuko Matsumiya, an 87-year-old member of the Japanese community who relocated from Tochigi Prefecture in 1956, shared her appreciation for the royal couple's attendance at the ceremony. She remarked that it was heartening to see members of the imperial family consistently participate in significant milestones related to the Japanese diaspora in Paraguay. This sentiment reflects the deep respect and connection felt within the local Japanese community toward Japan’s royal family. This visit marks the second time Crown Prince Fumihito has traveled to Paraguay to honor the legacy of Japanese immigration. Previously, he visited the country in 2006 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the initial wave of immigrants. These visits highlight the sustained interest of the Japanese monarchy in maintaining and reinforcing diplomatic and cultural ties with Paraguay. The current celebration further solidifies the historical significance of the Japanese community's contribution to Paraguay's development and national identity.