The Opening Ceremony of the “Portrait du Livre Japonais”-exhibition at the UCL

On 20 September, Ambassador Ishii and his wife, together with Second Secretary Ms. Kuzuyama, assisted the opening ceremony of the “Portrait du Livre Japonais”-exhibition at the Université Catholique de Louvain (UCL). This exhibition is held as one of the celebration events of the 150 Years of Friendship between Japan and Belgium. The UCL possesses no less than 13600 old Japanese books and scrolls, which were all offered by Japan after the visit to Belgium of Emperor Showa on 20 June 1921, when the Emperor was still Prince Regent. At the opening ceremony, Vice-Rector Ms. Préat gave a welcome address, followed by an introduction to the works and the composition of the exhibit by the person in charge of the library Ms. Vilcot. Ambassador also made a welcome speech, in which he showed his gratitude for opening such a wonderful exhibition. (The exhibition will stay open until 8 October, at the university’s gallery)