As part of his current visit to Japan, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih visited Odawara City on Monday and met with Mayor Kenichi Kato.
The president is currently on an official visit to Japan to witness the enthronement of the Japanese Emperor Naruhito who, after Emperor Akihito’s abdication, ascended to the Chrysanthemum throne earlier this year.
The two diplomats explored different ways in which both countries could educate the other in different areas during their meeting.
President Solih said he hoped to continue expanding ties between Japan and Maldives, sharing best practices between local governments, both at the national and provincial levels.
The president also conveyed his sympathy to Odawara’s mayor and people affected by Typhoon Hagibis. He commended the government of Japan for its swift action to recover from the damage.
While Japan is hosting the 2020 Summer Olympics, Odawara City is set to host the pre-game training and event Maldivian athletes competing in the games.
The athletes will also train at Odawara City’s Shiroyama Athletic Field, which was first built in 1955, with eight tracks of five throwing activity areas and 12 Olympic sports jumping event areas.
Mayor Kenichi assured the city would provide any support they needed to Maldivian athletes.
President Solih attended a lunch organized by Mayor Kenichi after the meeting and visited the Shiroyama Athletic Field and the Suzuhiro Kamaboko (Fish Cake) Factory.
