I am pleased to announce honorary appointments within the Order of Australia to five prominent Japanese men and women for their service to Australian-Japan relations.
I am delighted that my visit to Tokyo next week will allow me the opportunity to personally present these awards to the distinguished recipients at a special ceremony in Tokyo on 17 July.
These awards reflect the depth of the bilateral relationship and expecially the strong links that exist between the people of Japan and the people of Australia.
Mr Takashi Imai, Honorary Chairman of the Nippon Steel Corporation and Chairman of the Japan-Australia Business Cooperation Committee, will be appointed as an Honorary Companion (AC) in the General Division for service to Australia-Japan business relations.
Mr Minoru Murofushi, Chairman of Itochu Corporation and Vice-Chairman of the Japan-Australian Business Cooperation Committee, will be appointed as an Honorary Companion (AC) in the General Division for service to Australia-Japan business relations.
Mr Tadashi Yamamoto, President of the Japan Centre for International Exchange will be appointed as an Honorary Officer (AO) in the General division for service to Australian-Japan relations, particularly the young political leaders exchange programme.
Mrs Masako Endo, author of five books, numerous essays and newspaper articles on historical aspects of Australia-Japan relations has enlightened both Japanese and Australians about the long history, dating back to 1831, of their history. She will be appointed a Medal (OAM) in the General Division for service to Australia-Japan relations.
Professor Shunsuke Takahashi, Professor of Physical Culture, Komazawa University and Chief Instructor of the Japan Karate Association of Australia, will be appointed a Medal (OAM) in the General Division for service to the sport of Karate.