Courtesy Call on the Eastern Army
October 11, 2007

H.E. Dr. Ghanim Al-Jumaily paid a courtesy call on the Eastern Army, Japan Ground Self Defense Force on October 11.

Ambassador met Lieutenant General Mr. Kazushige Izumi, the Commanding General of Eastern Army, Japan Ground Self Defense Force. Ambassador expressed his appreciation for arranging trip to quake hit Kashiwazaki city and Kariwa village on July 29 which was the first anniversary of GSDF redeployment from Samawah. He also expressed deep appreciation to Air Self Defense Force troops for their airlifting services in Iraq.

They exchanged views and opinions on Iraqi history and cultures. Ambassador said," Iraq was the cradle of civilization. So the history of Iraq is the history of humanity. I thank GSDF troops for their efforts in protecting archeological sites." General Izumi said, "Iraq is proud of its long history and rich natural resources. Before the former regime, Iraq had excellent human resources, good education systems and abundant agricultural products. I hope Iraq will be reconstructed no further delay."

After the meeting, Ambassador was given a tour around Asaka base. He visited the Physical Training School, the music band of Eastern Army and Public Information Center. The music band held a concert for Ambassador. They played Iraqi national anthem which he was very much impressed by.

Ambassador and GSDF troops renewed their friendship and pledged to continue promoting Iraq ? Japan friendly ties.


Lieutenant General Mr. Kazushige Izumi and Ambassador

Visiting OVAL Corporation
October 2, 2007

H.E. Dr. Ghanim Al Jumaily went to Oval Corporation in Yokohama. Oval Corporation has received 20 Iraqi engineers to provide training. Ambassador was welcomed by the corporate executives and given information on corporate profile.

Ambassador delivered speech for trainees in which he referred to the importance of the training.

The gist of Ambassador's speech is as follows;
Training is important not only narrowing technical gap but also creating human network. This will be the inception of your friendly relationship with Japanese technicians. Your friendship will be a solid base of Japan-Iraq friendly ties.

There a lot to learn from Japan. Not mention to technical aspect, you will learn about working relations for instance how they communicate, how they deal with information, how they share information and so on.

The most important thing you have to learn from Japan is to know how Japan revived from the total destruction of the WW�Uand become the world- second economy. We need to learn from Japanese experience. We have world- proud fertile land, natural resources and people. If we put our mind, we can rebuild our country. Those who determine to rebuild their country, society and lives; they are the ones who succeed in. You are the re-builders of our beloved country.

Again I appreciate Oval Corporation to receive Iraqi technicians. I hope it will be the beginning of the everlasting friendship."

Visiting Todaiji Temple in Nara
September 20, 2007

On September 20, Ambassador visited Todaiji temple in Nara. He met Dr. Kosei Morimoto, Chief Abbot of Todaiji temple. Dr. Morimoto's research focuses on the social-economic history of the early Islamic period. He also completed a Japanese translation of Ibun Khaldun's Muqaddimah (Introduction of History).

The Ambassador was given a tour of the Todaiji temple with in-depth information of the history and significance of the temple by Mr. Morimoto. Mr. Morimoto and the Ambassador engaged in broad discussion on Islam and Japan's relations with Iraq and the Muslim world.

Visiting Kyoto Keizai Doyukai
September 19, 2007

On September 19, H.E. Dr. Ghanim al-Jumaily visited Kyoto to deliver a lecture for the member of the Kyoto Keizai Doyukai( Kyoto Corporate Executive Association). He talked about history and the people of Iraq, current situation, roadmap for Iraq reconstruction and future Japan-Iraq relations. The Ambassador was welcomed by Mr. Watabe, Chairman of the organization and other senior members.

During the question-and-answer session, participants actively raised questions on how to stabilize security situation and Japan-Iraq economic ties. One of the participants said, "Most of the information on Iraq is about oil, war and terrorists' attacks. I learned that Iraq is proud of long history and wonderful culture. I also found Japan and Iraq share common values and interests. I hope Japan and Iraq continue to enjoy good relations."

The lecture was attended by about 150 members of Kyoto Keizai Doyukai.

Junior Ambassador Program 2007
August 28, 2007

Embassy of the republic of Iraq received Junior High School Students from Okayama prefecture under the Junior Ambassador Program organizes by Municipal Institute for International Co-operation.

The students were given an office tour to learn about roles, responsibilities and functions of the embassy. They also experienced volunteer work at the secretary division and the translation division.

H.E. Dr. Ghanim Al-Jumaily talked briefly about Iraq history for them. After the lecture, students enjoyed Iraqi food with all the staff of the Iraqi Embassy. Then they tried on Iraq style clothes.

One of the students put her impressions in writing. It said, "We have to enrich our knowledge by seeing many things, listening to many people and experiencing many activities first hand, which I believe would eventually produce creative interpretation and unbiased, original thinking."

Ambassador gave them message in which he said; we need to approach every situation with open mind as a mean to understand each other. We all need to work to establish justice and basic human rights. These will form strong foundation for global peace.

Visit to Kashiwazaki city and Kariwa village
July 25, 2007



H.E. Dr. Ghanim Al-Jumaily visited Kashiwazaki city and Kariwa village in Niigata pref. On July 16, areas around Kashiwazaki City and Kariwa Village were hit by the large scale Niigata Chuetsu Offshore Earthquake.

The Ambassador wanted to support and encourage those who were injured or lost their homes. He would also like to express his condolences to those who lost their lives. In addition, July 25 marked the first anniversary of the GSDF redeployment from Samawah, Iraq. GSDF, MSDF and ASDF have been engaged in restoration works in Kashiwazaki and Kariwa. They have provided food, water and make shift bathing facilities. Many of the troops, who were deployed to Iraq, have been working there for restoration immediately after the earthquake occurred. The Ambassador wanted to renew his appreciation for their great efforts in Samawah and encourage them on their new missions.

He paid a courtesy call to the Mayor of Kashiwazaki city and conveyed a message of support to the people of the city. He visited the Disaster Risk Management office, Community Radio Center, GSDF 12log headquarters, MSDF headquarters, ASDF Command Center and Kariwa village office.

At the Radio station, Ambassador said that he truly wanted people in the region to get back to a normal life as soon as possible and to keep their hopes alive. When he visited GSDF 12log headquarters, he talked with women who were waiting for the bathing service outside of the makeshift bath. A woman said, "Bathing is one of the biggest fun in an evacuate life. Ganbarimasu (I'll do my best)." One of the GSDF staff said," I was engaged in water supply activities in Samawah. I've found that the experience in Samawah is useful for disaster relief."

The Ambassador was given a helicopter tour of the area. During the tour, he got a clear view of the signs of the damage caused by the quake. He has seen that those who were affected and those who offer their support combine their powers to rebuild their hometown.

Visiting Kinosaki Onsen and Toyooka city
July 11, 2007

H.E. Ghanim Al-Jumaily visited Kinosaki Onsen at the invitation of JR West Union. Ambassador participated in the 19th Annual Convention of JR West Union. He was impressed that both workers and employers have striven to ensure safe train operation and to regain customers' trust regardless of an ideological stance.

He delivered a speech in which he expressed deep appreciation for inviting two Iraqi engineers to Japan and provided them training in Osaka and Kyushu last year. He also said," our friendship symbolizes friendly ties between Japan and Iraq. This will be a base of success in a future joint venture to rehabilitate Iraqi railroad system."

On the way to Kinosaki Onsen, he visited Toyooka city. He went to "Oriental White Stork Park" and paid a courtesy call on the mayor of Toyooka city. Toyooka city has proactively taken initiatives on environmental conservation, water management and organic agriculture. He found that Toyooka city and the Marsh Land located in southern Iraq, have a lot in common in terms of geographical aspect. He promised to revisit Toyooka city to enjoy natural beauty as well as learning more from their experience.

Visiting AOTS (Association for Overseas Technical Scholarship) Training Center
July 2, 2007

H.E. Ghanim Al-Jumaily visited AOTS Training Center that provides technical training for engineers overseas. 19 Iraqi engineers were under training organized by JOGMEC (Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation).

Ambassador delivered speech in which he said," It is very important for Iraqi technicians to receive training. It bridges technological gap between Iraq and Japan." He talked about relationship between Iraq and Japan. He also touched upon Japan's efforts to reconstruct Iraq. He said," Japan was battered by total destruction after World War II. However Japan was able to rebuild the country and became an economic super power. We have lots of things to learn from their experience."

In fiscal 2007, JOGMEC is planning to hold 8 training courses for Iraqi engineers. In total they will accept more than 150 Iraqi technicians this year. This time, AOTS provides training for 19 Iraqi engineers including 6 female trainees.

Courtesy Call on Minister of Defense Fumio Kyuma
June 27, 2006

H.E. Dr. Ghanim Al-Jumaily visited H.E. Mr. Fumio Kyuma, Minister of Ministry of Defense, to express appreciation on behalf of the people and the government of Iraq for Japan's assistance.

On June 20, the House of Councilors enacted a special measures law designed to enable an extension of Japanese Air Self Defense Force (ASDF) mission in Iraq by two years. The House of Representatives approved the law on May 15.

Visiting AOTS (Association for Overseas Technical Scholarship) Training Center
May 30, 2007

H.E. Ghanim Al-Jumaily visited AOTS Training Center that provides technical training for engineers overseas. 19 Iraqi engineers were under training organized by JOGMEC (Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation).

Dr. Ghanim Al-Jumaily delivered speech in which he said," It is very important for Iraqi technicians to receive training. It bridges technological gap between Iraq and Japan." He talked about relationship between Iraq and Japan. He also touched upon Japan's efforts to reconstruct Iraq. He said," Japan was battered by total destruction after World War II. However Japan was able to rebuild the country and became an economic super power. We have lots of things to learn from their experience."

Series N700 Test Ride Event
May 24, 2007

Dr. Ghanim Al-Jumaily participated in the test ride event of the series N 700 or newly developed Shinkansen by invitation of the Committee on Iraqi Railway Rehabilitation and Humanitarian Support. This committee members are consist of the West JR Trade Union, the National Railway Worker's Union and the Kyushu JR Trade Union.

Ambassador also paid a courtesy call on the CEO & President of JR West, Mr. Masao Yamazaki. He expressed gratitude that JR West accepted two Iraqi engineers last year and requested continued interest from JR West in helping railway sector in Iraq. Mr. Yamazaki pledged that JR West would provide continuous support for the Iraq's railway rehabilitation together with the Trade Union.

While riding series N 700, Ambassador learned the state-of-art technology and the countermeasures against the emergencies such as fire and earthquake. He enjoyed comfortable and quite trip from Shin Osaka to Hakata.

He had a meeting with the members of the Committee on Iraqi Railway Rehabilitation and Humanitarian Support. For the past two and half years, they have extended assistance in many ways. They enjoyed renewing their friendship. Both sides firmly believe that people-people friendship is a base of good relationship between two countries.

Visiting Hamura Intake Station and Murayama & Yamaguchi Reservoirs
May 7, 2007

Ambassador of Iraq to Japan, Dr. Ghamin Al-Jumaily visited Hamura Intake Station and Murayama & Yamaguchi Reservoirs on May 7, 2007 at the invitation of Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
Ambassador learned how the Bureau of Waterworks of Tokyo Metropolitan Government ensures the best water quality for Tokyo's citizens.
The staff of the Bureau of Waterworks of Tokyo Metropolitan Government talked about the history of Tamagawa Jousui (canal), the technology utilized, and their initiatives to prepare for natural disasters such as typhoon and earthquakes.
The Ambassador also enjoyed the natural beauty around Murayama & Yamaguchi Reservoirs called Lake Tama and Lake Sayama respectively.

H.E. Iraq's Prime Minister Mr. Nouri Al-Maliki Visits Japan
April 8-11, 2007

Iraq's Prime Minister paid a first visit to Japan on April 8th of this year. During the visit, he met with His Majesty Akihito, the Emperor of Japan, Prime Minister Mr. Abe, Foreign Minister Mr. Aso, Defense Minister Mr. Kyuma, and Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry Mr. Amari.
During his meeting with His Majesty the Emperor, Prime Minister Maliki expressed on behalf of the people and government of Iraq his appreciation for Japan's support.
During his meeting with Mr. Abe, Prime Minister, Japan announced a 57,716 billion yen loan to Iraq for two projects, the first being "Basrah Water Supply Improvement Project" and the second "Electricity Sector Reconstruction Project in Kurdistan Region." Mr. Abe also announced that the government will request the Parliament to approve a two-year extension to the special Law allowing Air Self Defense Forces to provide logistical support for UN and coalition forces.


Photos: Cabinet Public Relations Office

Lunch & Lecture
February 28, 2007

Ambassador Dr. Ghanim Al-Jumaily invited 7 members of the Democratic Party of Japan to his residence. He made a lecture over Iraqi lunch. Dr. Al-Jumaily talked about Iraq modern history, the current situation and Iraq-Japan relations. After the lecture, participants had an active discussion on the current situation and what Japan can do for establishing long-term relations between the two countries. Above all they enjoyed Iraqi food very much.

Students' visit to Iraqi Embassy
February 14, 2007

On Feb.14, six students of Niiza Shiritsu Higashino Elementary School visited the Embassy of the Republic of Iraq. Their interest in learning about Iraq started while they were studying counties in the world.

The students asked about Iraqi traditions, events and lifestyle. They also asked about the way Iraqi people view Japan. Mr. Mukhlis, the third Secretary and Consul who received the students said, "Iraqi people like Japanese. We want to learn from Japan how to rehabilitate our country. Japan has become the second largest economy in the world from the devastation of the World War Two."

The Ambassador Dr. Ghanim Al-Jumaily met with the students. He asked if anyone wants to become a diplomat. He said, "If you become a diplomat, you can enjoy traveling all around the world and meet interesting people."

Who is the future diplomat in the picture?

Courtesy call on the Chief Representative of the New Komei Party, Mr. Akihiro Ohta
February 6, 2007

At the opening of the meeting, Dr. Al-Jumaily thanked Mr.Ohta for the meeting despite his busy schedule and the current Diet session. The Ambassador said that he wanted to visit Mr. Ohta to congratulate him in person on assuming leadership post of the New Komei Party and express deep appreciation on behalf of the people and government of Iraq for the support that Iraqi have received from the party.

Mr. Ohta indicated that he visited Kurdistan region and met with President Talabani and regional president Mr. Barzani. The two sides discussed in details the current situation in Iraq focusing on the security situation and the status of the environmental programs especially the Marshland rehabilitation.

In response to a question by Mr. Ohta, the Ambassador discussed the favorable views of the Iraqi people towards the deployment of the GSDF and the hope that the government of Japan would extend the deployment of ASDF. The two sides expressed strong willingness to continue this dialogue on important issue between Iraq and Japan.

Seminar on Islamic Finance
January 22-23, 2007

A seminar on Islamic Finance was held on January 22 and 23, 2007 sponsored by Islamic Finance Services Board (IFSB), Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and Japan Institute for Overseas Investment (JOI).

The Ambassador of the Republic of Iraq, Dr.Al-Jumaily and the Ambassador of Kuwait, H.E. Mr. Al-Zawawi extended relentless effort to make this seminar possible.

Ten participants from Middle East countries and Malaysia made presentations in which they talked about Islamic Finance from the perspective of the Islamic Finance services Industry and market players. They also touched upon Shari'ah and legal issues.

Mr. Muhammed Al-Samerray, Chairman of Dijulah & Furat Bank (Iraq) and Mr. Wa'el Al-Abduljader, Chairman of Ewan Holding ( Kuwait) joined in the Seminar.

More than 220 Japanese participants gathered in the hall to aquire knowledge on Islamic Finance.

Mr. Tadashi Maeda, Director General & Special Advisor for Energy and Resources of JBIC, is a key player of introducing Islamic finance to Japan. He announced that JBIC and Her Excellency Dr. Zeti, Governor on Bank Negara Malaysia, exchanged memorandum to work together to promote Islamic Finance in Asian market.