Maldives and Japan celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Japanese Embassy in Malé with a ceremony at the Social Centre, highlighting the growing partnership between the two countries and their expanding cultural and diplomatic cooperation.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Foreign Affairs Iruthisham Adam noted the increasing popularity of Japanese culture in the Maldives.

She highlighted the growing appreciation for Japanese cuisine as well as the rising interest in anime and other forms of Japanese entertainment among young Maldivians.

She also emphasized that stronger cultural exchanges would continue to reinforce the longstanding relationship between the two nations.

The foreign minister also acknowledged Japan's continued support for the Maldives in areas such as education, economic development, and efforts to improve visa accessibility.

Japanese Ambassador to the Maldives Ishigami Rumiko reaffirmed Japan's commitment to maintaining close ties with the Maldives and continuing development assistance aimed at improving livelihoods and supporting long-term progress.

She also expressed confidence that the number of Japanese visitors traveling to the Maldives would continue to increase in the years ahead.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, attendees witnessed a live Kendo demonstration showcasing the traditional Japanese martial art.

To commemorate the occasion, the Japanese Embassy donated a set of Kendo equipment, which was formally presented to Maldivian representatives during the event.

The Maldives and Japan established diplomatic relations on November 15, 1967.

Japan initially managed its diplomatic engagement with the Maldives through its mission in Colombo before opening its resident embassy in Malé in 2016, marking a decade of permanent diplomatic representation this year.