Embassy of Tokyo presents new honors of the Republic - News from Embassies

The official ceremony for the presentation of new honors of the Italian Republic, conferred by decision of President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella, to a number of Italians and Japanese who have distinguished themselves for “their outstanding contribution to the strengthening of relations between Italy and Japan,” was held at the headquarters of the Italian Embassy in Tokyo. Attending in the grand hall of the diplomatic residence, located in the center of the capital, was Ambassador Gianluigi Benedetti, who highlighted “the commitment, creativity and dedication of the awardees.”
They included the organizer and cultural promoter in the academic world, Hidenobu Jinnai, Commendatore of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, for “having dedicated his career to the enhancement of Italy’s architectural and urban heritage, spreading knowledge of our restoration and conservation practices in Japan.” Masayuki Kobayashi an expert in opera music, and Hiroshi Okawa an importer of food and wine excellence, who were honored as Officers of the Order of the Star of Italy. The five Knights of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, on the other hand, are in order, Toshihiko Hamada, president of the Nippon Sanso Holdings industrial group; Hiroshi Kamiya, for his contributions in the fields of sustainable architecture, including his work on the historic Italian Embassy garden; Shiro Nakamura, for cultural ties fostered through the multimedia company Asahi Shimbun; Shoei Utsuda, for his continued promotion of Italian performing arts in Japan; and Danilo Parini, the only Italian in the selection for boosting the energy transition and technological innovation between the two countries through the strategic partnership between De Nora and Asahi Kasei. “Your commitment, creativity and dedication represent the most authentic face of cooperation between Italy and Japan,” Ambassador Benedetti recalled before a large group of attendees. “I express to you my sincerest admiration, Italy’s deep esteem for you, and my wish that these awards will be a source of renewed enthusiasm and further success.”