Arab News Japan
TOKYO: Dr. Ghazi Faisal Binzaqr, Ambassador of Saudi Arabia, turned the Tokyo embassy into a lively celebration of Saudi culture for “Saudi Coffee Day,” welcoming Japanese guests to experience the warmth and flavor of Saudi coffee and dates.
“Today, the embassy welcomed a distinguished gathering. The event demonstrated that traditions such as coffee serve as important instruments for dialogue and fostering international friendship,” Ambassador Binzagr stated in his welcoming remarks.
In an interview with Arab News Japan, the ambassador praised the Saudi embassy staff for their heartfelt hospitality, noting that they greeted guests with genuine smiles, poured fragrant Saudi coffee, offered sweet dates, and transported everyone into the heart of Saudi Arabia in a traditional tent.
“By sharing core elements of our heritage, we observed enthusiastic responses from guests who experienced authentic Saudi generosity and hospitality,” Ambassador Binzagr remarked.
Ambassador Binzagr noted, “This event underscores the role of diplomacy in promoting rapprochement and mutual understanding at the grassroots level. We hope this gathering will inspire future embassy initiatives.”
A traditional Saudi tent was set up in the embassy’s courtyard, giving guests a memorable break from the busy city of Tokyo. Inside, visitors sipped coffee and enjoyed dates, expressing deep gratitude for the chance to experience Saudi culture.
A Japanese guest shared with Arab News Japan that while Saudi Arabia is often viewed as a petroleum powerhouse, this event unveiled the deeper cultural story behind Saudi coffee and dates. The unique, refreshing taste of the coffee, served unsweetened, left a lasting impression and showcased flavors that could stand alongside those of major coffee chains. The gathering highlighted how Saudi coffee and dates can serve as bridges, deepening the bonds between the two nations.
She added, “The Saudi representative served the coffee in traditional attire, combined with a warm greeting, I felt like receiving a genuine gift. I thank the embassy for the invitation.”
AloJapan.com