5 Bridging Innovation: The Synergy Between Israel and Japan This past May, Japanese ambassador to Israel, ARAI Yusuke reflected on IsraelJapan ties during an extraordinarily difficult war: “Despite these hardships, bilateral relations between Japan and Israel are at a strong point in terms of our political ties, economic cooperation, and cultural relations.” “Israel and Japan, united by their reverence for heritage and family, have built a partnership where tradition fuels innovation and progress,” points out Isaku Uchiyama, Head of the Tokyo office at Nishlis Global Legal Marketing. Rooted in mutual respect, both nations share a commitment to cutting-edge innovation, a strong work ethic, and a deep respect for their historical and cultural identities. In this edition of IsraelDesks magazine, we take a deep dive into the tapped - and untapped - potential between Israel and Japan as both nations strive to forge deeper connections in a changing world. Friendship and Mutual Respect Diplomatic relations between Japan and Israel were established in 1952, built on a bedrock of goodwill. As Ambassador Yusuke stated: “Our friendship with the Jewish people goes back to even before the establishment of the State of Israel.” Indeed, one striking example is Mr. Sugihara Chiune, Japan’s vice consul in Lithuania during World War II, who issued thousands of visas to save Jewish lives during the Holocaust. Declared “Righteous Among the Nations” by the Yad Vashem Museum in Jerusalem, he is the only Japanese national with such an honor and Sugihara’s heroism embodies the spirit that drives the relationship today. Over the decades, this relationship has evolved into a multifaceted partnership, with initiatives to expand cooperation in trade, defense, and innovation, creating a momentum that has seen Japan emerge as one of Israel’s most significant Asian partners. Both countries have also recognized the untapped potential to further reduce trade barriers, especially through the prospective Free Trade Agreement, which would be expected to unlock new opportunities.
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