Riyadh, January 14, 2025 – In a significant meeting today in Diriyah's historic Al-Bujairi District, Assistant Minister of Culture Rakan bin Ibrahim Altouq welcomed Hisashi Matsumoto, the Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan. The meeting focused on deepening the growing cultural ties between Saudi Arabia and Japan, reflecting the strengthening relationship between the two nations, particularly as the Kingdom and Japan approach the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2025.
During their discussions, Assistant Minister Altouq emphasized the Saudi Ministry of Culture's commitment to expanding cultural cooperation and exchanges across a variety of fields in 2025. This year, marking seven decades of diplomatic relations between the two countries, presents an opportune moment to further enhance mutual understanding through shared cultural initiatives. Altouq outlined plans for a series of cultural programs and collaborations aimed at fostering greater cultural dialogue and exchange between Saudi Arabia and Japan, with a focus on promoting the rich heritage and artistic traditions of both nations.
One of the key topics of the meeting was Saudi Arabia's participation in Expo 2025 Osaka, where the Kingdom will showcase its national pavilion. Altouq highlighted the importance of this international event as a platform for further strengthening Saudi-Japanese ties and showcasing the Kingdom’s cultural innovations to a global audience. The Saudi pavilion at Expo 2025 will not only spotlight Saudi culture and heritage but also underscore the Kingdom’s strategic vision to play a more prominent role in global cultural exchange and dialogue.
The meeting between Altouq and Matsumoto underscored the shared commitment of both nations to celebrate their historical and cultural connections. As Saudi Arabia continues to diversify its cultural landscape and engage more deeply on the international stage, partnerships with countries like Japan are seen as critical to advancing the Kingdom's cultural diplomacy, in alignment with the broader objectives of Vision 2030.
This dialogue between the two nations is a testament to the mutual respect and appreciation for each other's cultural achievements, and it paves the way for future collaborations that will further enhance the cultural and diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Japan.