Message from the Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to Japan

On behalf of the Philippine Government, I wish to convey my congratulations to the ASEAN-Japan Centre for the launching of its new website coinciding with the recent opening of the Centre's new office and the "ASEAN-Japan" Multi-Purpose Hall.

Since its establishment in 1981, the ASEAN-Japan Centre has been in the forefront of promoting trade, investments and tourism between Japan and the ASEAN countries. This period coincided with increased economic linkages resulting in closer economic relations between Japan and ASEAN. Japan is ASEAN's top source of investments and tourists.

The Centre continues to transform itself in response to rapidly changing times and needs in the region. The Centre's activities which include exhibitions and events on trade, investments and tourism, seminars, workshops, missions, technical cooperations and public relations, have contributed to the introduction of new ASEAN products and services in the Japanese market including Philippine products such as the nata de coco and other food products, interior decorations and gift products made from natural fibers such as abaca. The Centre has strongly supported the Philippine IT industry by showcasing its capabilities in SODEC and organizing IT-related investment missions to the Philippines.

The closer economic integration and increased economic activities between Japan and ASEAN have culminated in the signing of the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP) Agreement in 2008. In response to these new developments and changing needs, the Centre has continued in its reform path aimed at strengthening its functions and diversifying its activities in line with the recommendations outlined in the "Final Report of the Eminent Persons Committee (EPC) on the Reform of the Centre," adopted in April 2006.

Under the direction and guidance of its new Secretary General Yoshikuni Ohnishi, we are confident that the ASEAN-Japan Centre will continue to fulfill its mandate with greater efficiency and effectiveness.

June 2009