Hon. Eduardo Ermita,
Executive Secretary, office of the President
Hon. Alfredo Lim,
Mayor, City of Manila
Hon. Richard Alvin Nalupta ,
Chairman, National Youth Commission (NYC)
Mr. Tatsushi Nishizawa,
Ship Administrator of Nippon Maru
and Director for Office of the Director General for Policies on Cohesive Society, Cabinet Office of Japan
Delegates,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Let me first of all extend a warm welcome to all the participants from ASEAN and Japan aboard the friendship boat Nippon Maru which has docked in Manila earlier today.
Since its launch in 1974 sponsored by the Government of Japan in partnership with the governments of five ASEAN-member countries including the Philippines , the Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Programme has brought together young people from ASEAN-member countries and Japan to experience communal living, to appreciate each other's diverse cultures and to discover common values, ideas and aspirations. From the original five ASEAN countries, today, there are ten ASEAN countries participating in this programme.
Sailing on its 35 th year, the programme continues to promote deeper understanding and create friendships among youths from Japan and the ASEAN region. It is a good platform for our youths to broaden their international perspective and nurture the spirit of international cooperation.
It is my sincere hope that through this programme, the essence of solidarity will continue to live on among the youths in our countries and that all of the participants will take into their hearts and minds the experiences and lessons they have learned on-board the Nippon Maru when they take on leadership roles in their respective countries.
In closing, on behalf of the Government of Japan, I would like to express our appreciation to the Government of the Philippines , specifically the National Youth Commission, for organizing this welcome reception and for its continued support in the implementation of the programme in the Philippines . I would also like to extend our gratitude to Nippon Maru's Administrator Mr. Nishizawa and his crew and all others who have made this voyage a rewarding experience for the participants.
Likewise, I would like to convey our appreciation to the young participants for bringing your enthusiasm, joyful spirit and unique cultures to the programme this year and to everyone present for welcoming the ship with such warm and gracious hospitality.
Thank you very much. Mabuhay!
Embassy of Japan in the Philippines