Japan Observes National Foundation Day Today

Japan today marks its National Foundation Commemoration Day, known as Kenkoku-Kinen-no-Hi, commemorating the legendary foundation of the nation and the enthronement of Emperor Jimmu in 660 BC.

Japan today celebrates its National Foundation Commemoration Day, observed annually on February 11, to mark the legendary founding of the nation and the enthronement of its first Emperor, Jimmu, in 660 BC.

The day provides an opportunity for Japan to reflect on its rich history, enduring spirit, and the values and traditions that have shaped the nation over centuries. It also highlights hopes for further strengthening the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Japan and Sri Lanka.

In a message marking the occasion, Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, H.E. Akio Isomata, extended warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Sri Lanka. He emphasised that the day serves as a moment to celebrate Japan’s heritage and to deepen bilateral ties between the two countries.

The Ambassador highlighted recent developments in Japan–Sri Lanka relations, including President Anura Kumar Dissanayake’s official visit to Japan last year, which helped elevate bilateral relations. During the visit, a joint statement was issued for the first time in eight years, and a project for the Sri Lankan Navy was signed under Japan’s Official Security Assistance (OSA) scheme. Plans were also proposed to establish an export-oriented industrial corridor to integrate Sri Lanka into regional supply chains.

He recalled the historic support extended by Sri Lanka to Japan at the San Francisco Peace Conference in 1951, where the late President J.R. Jayawardene quoted the Dhammapada and advocated for Japan’s inclusion in the post-war international community. He also mentioned Jayawardene’s cornea donation to Japan, which led to thousands of cornea donations from Sri Lanka over the years.

Japan’s long-standing assistance to Sri Lanka was also highlighted, including infrastructure projects such as the Colombo Port, Manampitiya Bridge, and Ramboda Tunnel, as well as support during natural disasters and economic crises. Japan’s contribution to human resource development through volunteer programs and educational initiatives was also noted.

The Ambassador further stressed the importance of maritime cooperation between the two nations and highlighted the growing interest in Japanese language, culture, and employment opportunities among Sri Lankans.