Family, Baseball, and Friendship: Venezuelan Ambassador Seiko Ishikawa on Japan-Venezuela Bonds
Seiko Ishikawa, Venezuela’s ambassador to Japan since 2005, sits down with Nippon.com to discuss his Japanese roots, his personal connection to concepts like mono no aware, and the cultural and sporting bonds linking Venezuela and Japan.
Seiko Ishikawa, the Venezuelan ambassador to Japan, was born to Japanese immigrant parents and has roots in both Okinawa and Yamanashi. He reflects on the Japanese concept of mono no aware, which encompasses the appreciation of the fleeting beauty found in ephemeral things, such as cherry blossoms. Ishikawa recalls his youthful ambition of climbing Mount Fuji at the age of 20.
He is deeply passionate about both baseball and Okinawan cuisine, noting the strong bond between Venezuela and Japan in their shared love for the sport. In response to the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela in June 2026, Ishikawa applauds Japan's prompt and generous support, expressing his profound gratitude. He has held the position of ambassador to Japan since 2005, initially serving as Trade Attaché and Chief of Commercial Office in Spain (2004–2005) and Economic and Trade Attaché in Japan (2001–2004).
Dedicated to fostering bilateral relations between Japan and Venezuela, Ishikawa actively promotes economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and international collaboration between the two nations.
Written by urgent.news from Nippon.com's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
