British Ambassador David Warren gave a lecture at Wakayama University on the UK-Japan relationship, the Mainichi Shimbun reported on 14 May.
More than 350 students attended the lecture about the similarities and diversities shared by the two countries, and the need to promote educational links further.
The lecture had been suggested by the governor of Wakayama Prefecture, Yoshinobu Nisaka, who held several senior positions in the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) in the 1990s, when Warren was on a previous tour of duty at the British Embassy, Tokyo.
“About 40% of London residents were born abroad and the UK has multiple cultures from many countries, brimming with vigour and creativity”, Warren said.
Warren, who has lived in Japan for 33 years, added: “Japan has been building a global society. With trade, investment and cultural exchange, Japan has had a great impact on the world”.
He added that he hopes young people experience overseas travel and study with an intellectual curiosity, adding that he tries to bridge cultures with lectures like these.
Wakayama University has been diversifying steadily since its founding 40 years ago.
