A 1997 regional friendship initiative saw 12 civil servants from Fiji spend a month in Japan to promote unity and mutual trust among youths in the Asia-Pacific region.
According to an article published by The Fiji Times on June 24, 1997, the Japanese Government, through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), invited 31 participants from Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu to take part in the program.
Speaking during a pre-departure orientation session, JICA’s resident representative Yasushi Inaba said participants would experience a way of life and culture very different from their own.
“What you encounter in Japan will be quite different from what you are used to or have experienced,” Mr Inaba said.
“This is an opportunity for young men and women from all over the world to meet and exchange ideas and knowledge about their diverse backgrounds.”
Mr Inaba said the knowledge and experience participants gained would be useful in their workplaces and schools.
“I would like you to pay particular attention to your coordinators during your orientation.”
The Friendship Program for the 21st Century is an annual initiative where more than 1000 participants from across the Asia-Pacific region have the opportunity to experience Japanese culture at the expense of the Japanese Government.
Mr Inaba said goodwill, trust and long-lasting friendships could be achieved when people from different backgrounds learn to understand and respect one another.
Two coordinators from Japan were sent to Fiji to conduct the pre-departure orientation program and escort the group to Japan.
Since 1986, 758 participants from the region have visited Japan under the program.
The group, aged between 18 and 35, was scheduled to depart Fiji the following day.
