Message from the Corporate Sponsor
Mr. Masataka Watanabe, Managing Editor, Asahi Shimbun Osaka Head Office
I would like to say a few words as a representative of The Asahi Shimbun, the corporate sponsor of the 2nd SAKAI Peace Contribution Award.
This award was founded when the city became an ordinance-designated city based on a motto of, ‘No peace, no municipal prosperity’ and we now celebrate the 2nd Award Ceremony.
I would also like to give the very highest applause to Mr. Motoi Tauchi (Senior Director of Kokoro-no Kazoku, a social welfare corporation), Ms. Agalyn Nagase (General Manager of KAFIN, a Filipino mutual aid organization) and LALA Association for Afghan Orphan Support (NGO) and to all our other contributors.
I would also like to express my sincere respect and gratitude to the award screening committee members led by Mr. Masaaki Ueda.
I was so impressed when reading the records of your activities. These include providing elderly Korean residents in Japan caring homes that possess a homely Korean atmosphere, assisting to resolve the series of problems for Filipino women residing in Japan, and supporting the self-reliance of children and women in Afghanistan. I must say the respective efforts undertaken by all these successful peace activists are truly focused with a global viewpoint upon building a society of diversity—where cultural differences, racial classifications and age are brushed aside.
Sakai City has been an international city since ancient times. It had developed as a city of international trade and self-governance during the Middle Ages. Recently I have heard that the number of domestic and international tourists visiting the city has increased significantly. This is thanks to the new tourism focus of the region that combines history, culture and industry and also to the neighboring Kansai International Airport
Additionally, following these traditions, Sakai City is demonstrating its character by becoming a leading-edge city and enhancing its urban appeal. Recently, operation has begun at one of Japan’s largest Solar Power Generation facilities, and this year the UNESCO International Research Center for Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region is scheduled to open in Sakai. I believe that this peace contribution award also plays an important role in building Sakai’s future. By recognizing people who are continuing important activities for peace-building, the city is spreading the inspiration of their work. As a result, a large number of people can deepen their recognition of peace and human rights. This is a vitally important program for future generations.
This award further encourages those contributing to a peaceful society. The Asahi Shimbun would like to continue to project the message of Sakai City’s valuable efforts domestically and internationally.
Finally, I wish for the ongoing development of Sakai City, for further success for all the award recipients and their organizations, and for the continuous support of everyone who has joined us today.