On Tuesday 20 August 2013, the Consulate-General of Japan in Melbourne hosted a ceremony and reception to award the Foreign Minister’s Commendation for 2013 to Mr Toshinori Sakamoto, Founding Director of Wadaiko Rindo.

The Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendations are accorded to individuals and groups for their outstanding achievements in international fields as an acknowledgement of their contributions to the promotion of friendship between Japan and other countries.

The Commendation also aims to promote the understanding and support of the Japanese public for their activities. Mr Sakamoto, accompanied by his family, was presented with an award certificate and a commemorative silk furoshiki from Consul-General Mr Hidenobu Sobashima on behalf of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Mr Fumio Kishida.

Councillor Kevin Louey from the City of Melbourne and Mr Nao Endo, Director of the Japan Foundation Sydney, were also in attendance and expressed high praise for Mr Sakamoto in their speeches.

Consul-General Mr Hidenobu Sobashima, Mrs Chikako Sobashima, Koetsu Sakamoto, Mrs Junko Sakamoto, Azumi Sakamoto, Toshi Sakamoto, Councillor Kevin Louey and Mr Nao Endo.